Good Samaritan” Ruse: Police Say Fake Instacart Driver Targeted Wheelchair-Bound Margate Woman, Stole Purse

by Ryan Yousefi April 25, 2026

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Jeremiah Isaiah Williams {BSO}

Police say an Instacart delivery driver used a “Good Samaritan” ruse to enter the home of a wheelchair-bound Margate woman and steal her purse and belongings.

Margate Police Department records show Jeremiah Isaiah Williams, 28, of Oakland Park, is facing charges of exploitation of a disabled adult and theft from a dwelling following an investigation into the April 8 incident that led to a warrant for his arrest.

MPD records show the victim, who is confined to a wheelchair, ordered items through Instacart from Walgreens early that morning. The app indicated the delivery would be made by a driver identified as “Cynthia W,” described as an older woman.

Instead, investigators say a man later identified as Williams arrived in a dark-colored sedan and delivered the items. After handing over the order, Williams allegedly asked the woman if she needed assistance. The victim told police she mentioned having trash to take out, and the two went inside the home.

Authorities say Williams grabbed a garbage bag and a cardboard box and exited the residence, appearing to help. But while outside, the victim noticed him rummaging through the trash, discarding it, and hurrying away.

It wasn’t until about two hours later that the woman realized her purse was missing.

Police say the stolen Coach purse contained personal items and cash, with total losses estimated at approximately $435. Shortly after the theft, the victim received an alert that her American Express card had been used for an $85 purchase at a RaceTrac gas station in Pompano Beach.

Investigators later reviewed surveillance footage and license plate reader data, which they say linked the transaction to a vehicle registered to Williams.

Detectives also noted that Williams’ mother shares the same name as the Instacart driver profile, leading investigators to believe the account may have been used to facilitate the scheme.

The victim later positively identified Williams in a photo lineup, according to the report.

Williams was taken into custody on April 21 and transported to the Broward County Main Jail. Bail was set at $40,000.

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Ryan Yousefi

Ryan Yousefi has lived in Coral Springs for over 30 years. He has worked as a writer for multiples outlets over the years, including the Miami New Times where he has covered sports and culture since 2013. He holds a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in Business Healthcare Management from Western Governors University.