Two Charged in Alleged Legal Services Scam in Memphis

Shelby County Sheriff's Office arrests Candice Eddins and Derrick Thomas for impersonating lawyers and theft

Mar. 13, 2026 at 11:09pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Shelby County Sheriff's Office has arrested two individuals, Candice Eddins and Derrick Thomas, for their alleged involvement in a legal services scam that targeted community members in Memphis, Tennessee. The scammers reportedly advised victims to hire certain legal services, took thousands of dollars in payments, and then failed to provide any actual legal services.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing problem of scams targeting vulnerable community members, especially those seeking legal assistance. It underscores the importance of verifying the credentials of any legal professionals before hiring them and the need for stronger consumer protections against fraud.

The details

According to the Shelby County Sheriff's Office, the scam involved Eddins and Thomas impersonating licensed legal professionals and convincing victims to pay thousands of dollars for services that were never rendered. Detectives were able to link Eddins to the scam, while Thomas was identified as an accomplice working from inside the jail.

  • On March 9, the SCSO received a complaint regarding an active scam affecting the community.
  • Eddins was arrested on March 12.

The players

Candice Eddins

A 41-year-old individual charged with impersonating a licensed professional and theft of property between $2,500-$10,000.

Derrick Thomas

A 41-year-old individual also charged with impersonating a licensed professional and theft of property between $2,500-$10,000, who was working with Eddins from inside the jail.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant bail for Eddins and Thomas at their upcoming court hearings.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of thoroughly vetting any legal professionals before hiring them and the need for stronger consumer protections to prevent such scams from occurring in the future. Victims are encouraged to report any suspected fraud to the authorities.