Two people from Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, have been charged with running what prosecutors describe as an elaborate “fortune-telling scheme” that deceived two clients and stole more than $600,000. Authorities allege that the pair used fear and emotional manipulation to convince victims they were cursed and that only expensive rituals could save them.
According to the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office, Gina Marie Marks, 52, of Huntingdon Valley, and Steve Nicklas, 40, of Jenkintown, operated a business called Jenkintown Psychic Visions, which offered tarot readings and spiritual consultations. The investigation began in late 2024 after one of their clients reported suspicious financial losses connected to the business. Detectives said the pair promised supernatural protection and healing services but instead pocketed large amounts of cash and valuable goods.
Court documents show that Marks and Nicklas face multiple felony counts, including theft by deception, receiving stolen property, and fortune-telling, as well as charges related to participating in a corrupt organization. The two were arrested in Kearny, New Jersey, and later released on bail after being extradited to Pennsylvania. Fortune-telling for money is currently illegal under Pennsylvania state law.
Investigators said the first victim reached out to the psychic business in 2022 seeking guidance about her personal life. During the initial phone reading, Marks allegedly claimed the woman was under a “powerful curse” that would destroy her marriage, family and business if it was not lifted. Over the next 11 months, prosecutors said, Marks and Nicklas persuaded the woman to give them money and luxury items, insisting these were needed to “cleanse” her energy. The defendants allegedly told her the items would be returned once the rituals were complete, but prosecutors said they kept everything instead. By the time the relationship ended in August 2023, investigators estimate the victim had lost nearly $600,000 through payments, jewelry, clothing, concert tickets and gift cards.
A second client came forward after contacting the same psychic service in June 2023. Authorities allege that Marks instructed this victim to send personal photos and private information, claiming it was necessary for spiritual work. As their sessions continued, Marks allegedly began asking for additional payments and luxury goods, including a Chanel handbag. When the client hesitated, prosecutors said Marks warned her that refusing could result in public embarrassment and other consequences. Investigators believe the pair took about $18,000 from this second victim before the scheme unraveled in early 2024.
Financial records obtained from Cash App, Zelle, and a local credit union showed money transfers leading directly to accounts belonging to Marks and Nicklas. Prosecutors credited one of the victims, who hired a private investigator, for helping authorities locate the suspects before their arrests.
Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele said the pair “preyed on people who were looking for help” and exploiting personal vulnerabilities for profit. Both defendants are scheduled to appear in court Oct. 20 for a preliminary hearing, while investigators continue reviewing financial data to determine if other victims were similarly targeted.
Sources: NBC News, CBS News, Go Erie
