Lakewood police have released a photograph of a man believed to be the husband of a woman suspected of conning several Hispanic families out of nearly $140,000.

The man used the name Jose Fernandez when he got a business license to lease a storefront in the 8600 block of South Tacoma Way, Lakewood police Lt. Heidi Hoffman said Wednesday. However, investigators have now determined that the California identification he presented for the license was false.

Police believe he’s the husband and accomplice of “Señora Monica,” who claimed she was able to cleanse money and souls of evil. She advertised that she could remove curses and cleanse money to help people with their religious beliefs, Hoffman said.

Several families gave “Señora Monica” money to cleanse and scheduled a final session with her Sunday at the store, Botanica Centro de Consultas.

“Señora Monica” never showed up and one of the victims called police.

Lakewood police were searching for her and her husband. No new leads were reported in the case Wednesday.

Investigators suspect the two might be driving a white Chevrolet Suburban with California license plates or a gray Honda Civic.

They also are believed to have three boys, ages 3 to 15.

Investigators ask anyone who knows the real identity of “Jose” or “Señora Monica” to contact them at 253-830-5000.

Stacey Mulick, The News Tribune