Durham Police said four suspects are facing numerous charges for targeting seniors in Durham Region and across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in grandparent scams, resulting in more than $37,000 in losses.
In November, investigators from the DRPS Financial Crimes Unit made four arrests in separate incidents of grandparent scams. In each case, the senior victim received a phone call from a person alleging their grandchild was involved in a police investigation, oftentimes an accident. The suspect would tell the victim their grandchild would be held in jail unless cash was provided for their release. The suspect would arrange for a ‘bondsman’ or courier to attend the home and pick up the money, said a police statement.
In one incident, after the money was received, the senior victim received another phone call from the suspect stating that more money was required for the grandchild’s release. The frauds varied from $8,000 to $11,000.
Investigators were able to identify three victims and believe there may be others that have not reported it to police. A photo of the suspects being released as investigators want to ensure there are no further victims. Names, pictures and further details available at www.drps.ca.
DRPS would like to remind residents who receive any unanticipated requests for money to be extremely cautious and speak to a family member or trusted advisor for support. Please speak to the seniors in your life and remind them of these scams. If you are not sure if it is a scam, hang up. Call 211 before you react.
For those seeking clarification or support, the DRPS has partnered with 211 Central to connect people to support and make appropriate referrals. Further information about grandparent scams can be viewed on our webpage.
Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact D/Cst. Middleton of the DRPS – Financial Crimes Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5321.