Grande Prairie, Alberta – Grande Prairie RCMP are seeking public assistance in identifying a male suspect involved in defrauding a Grande Prairie resident.
On May 8, 2023, Grande Prairie RCMP received a complaint regarding an elderly resident who had been defrauded of a large amount of Canadian currency in a Grandparent scam.
The victim received a call from someone saying they were an RCMP officer and that her grandson had been arrested. The victim was advised that before their grandson could be seen by a judge, he needed to secure a sum of bail money. The victim then spoke to an individual on the phone who they believed was their grandson. After being persuaded to pay, the victim was told a court trustee would attend the residence to pick up the money. A short time later an unknown male attended the residence and collected the money.
Grande Prairie RCMP received a similar complaint earlier in the day; however, members of the victim’s family arrived at the residence as the unknown male was attempting to get the money. The unknown male immediately left the area once the family began questioning the situation.
Canadians continue to be defrauded of their hard-earned savings by those intent on exploiting vulnerabilities most often of elderly residents in communities across Canada. Grande Prairie RCMP continue to see this type of fraudulent scam and expect the trend to continue. Grande Prairie RCMP advise the public to visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or call their toll free number 1-888-495-8501 to be better informed of current scams, their targets and warning signs.
Grande Prairie RCMP remind the public of the following tips avoid becoming a victim:
If you suspect that someone is misrepresenting themselves, gather as much information
about the incident as you can, including a phone number, the date and time, and details of the scenario that was presented to you.
Never e-transfer money to anyone that you cannot confirm the identity of.
Never invite or allow anyone to come to your residence to collect money for someone’s bail or unpaid fines. Police and courts will never demand money to be picked up in person or mailed.
Don’t keep the situation a secret. Scammers will tell you that there is a court order not to discuss the matter with anyone. Talk to family, friends, or loved ones for help.
If you have any information about fraudulent activities or know of anyone who has been scammed by those preying on the elderly and vulnerable residents in your communities, please contact the Grande Prairie RCMP at 780- 830-5700 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), by Internet at www.tipsubmit.com or by SMS (check your local Crime Stoppers www.crimestoppers.ab.ca for instructions). To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.
Grande Prairie RCMP
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