THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) apprehended a woman who was falsely presenting herself as a “top caliber lawyer” in Bacoor City.
The NBI-National Capital Region (NBI-NCR) identified the suspect as Ma. Erika Jouielun Catarbas, who faces charges of estafa under Article 315 (2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code (RPC) and Unauthorized Practice of Law.
Catarbas, alias “Atty. Mendoza,” allegedly amassed P19 million in legal fees from March 2023 to October 2023 by allegedly deceiving a client-complainant.
Unsatisfied, she demanded an additional P5 million from the complainant as an outstanding balance for her purported legal services.
Suspecting something foul, the complainant sought NBI assistance, leading to Catarbas’ arrest in a meticulously executed entrapment operation.
Following the arrest, Catarbas underwent inquest proceedings at the Office of the City Prosecutor in Bacoor, Cavite.
