Angel-Faced Con Artist Duped Dozens of Israelis Using Fake Checks and sob Stories

A woman known as Margot Jessie Sitbon, operating out of Netanya, has been charged with defrauding dozens of victims across Israel, including the elderly, small business owners, and unsuspecting individuals. For three years, Sitbon allegedly used Facebook Marketplace to target her victims, employing a sophisticated scheme that involved feigning financial distress, using sob stories about her children, and presenting a sympathetic demeanor. She would often request immediate pickup of high-value items like gold jewelry, luxury phones, and even vehicles, claiming urgent need.

Sitbon's payment method involved presenting stolen or counterfeit checks, or fake screenshots of bank transfers. The money never reached the sellers. Victims reported that despite numerous complaints filed with the police over three years, cases were often dismissed as involving an "unknown offender" or were relegated to civil proceedings. When arrested, she was repeatedly released by courts, sometimes to house arrest which she allegedly violated.

The investigation, which culminated in her arrest after a dramatic confrontation with a news program crew, has led to a serious indictment. The charges include numerous counts of fraud, deception, theft, and forgery. The prosecution is handling the case, and civil lawsuits have also been filed by victims seeking to recover their losses.

Victims described Sitbon's manipulative tactics, including using her young children as part of her ruse to elicit sympathy and urgency. She would often pressure sellers for immediate transactions, sometimes late at night or on weekends, and exploit emotional vulnerabilities. One elderly victim reportedly fell into a deep depression and passed away within three months of being robbed of her jewelry by Sitbon, who had posed as a helper.

Sitbon's alleged activities extended to business owners, who were also defrauded using similar methods of fake payment confirmations. She also reportedly used dating apps to meet individuals and steal from them, even allegedly taking out a rental contract in one victim's name. Her defense attorneys have stated that the investigation materials present a different picture than alleged in the indictment and that their client is presumed innocent, deserving a fair trial.