The purpose of the so-called “big” or “long con” is to win or gain control of something for the long term. It is imperative that the primary victim (the “mark”) never know that he was taken in a confidence game, even after it is accomplished. Learning such, you see, the victim may undertake repair or recovery efforts, or even revenge, and any continuing winnings of the con artist are diminished or ended.
Typically, in addition to the con artist and the primary victim is either a patsy or a stooge. The former is simply a useful idiot. The latter is a witting accomplice – typically a key but lesser, initial target induced or forced to participate through blackmail or other incentive. This individual facilitates the goal of the mastermind -- wait, stop me if you’ve heard this one.
Wes Ward
Oro Valley
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