Montreal residents charged with defrauding 'grandparent scam' victims of $46,000
Ottawa police say a man and a woman from Montreal are facing fraud charges in connection with so-called “grandparent scams” that have allegedly defrauded victims of more than $46,000.
The fraud involves someone calling an elderly person and claiming to be a grandchild who is in serious trouble and needs money immediately, usually for bail. The caller is often pretending to be crying, making it harder to understand them, and there is a sense of both urgency and secrecy around the demands. The targets are then encouraged to withdraw cash, which is later picked-up by a courier.
Ottawa police say they’ve received 10 reports of such scams in recent months, with victims losing more than $100,000.
An investigation by Ottawa police and Morrisburg OPP resulted in two people being charged in connection with five reported events.
Jason Goulet-Fernandez, 22, and Danielle Jimenez-Golez, 19, are facing charges of fraud over $5,000, possession of proceeds obtained by crime, and conspiracy to commit and indictable offence. Both were scheduled to appear in court Tuesday.
Police released photos of the accused Tuesday, in order to identify any other possible victims. Police also said the suspects were using a black, four-door 2007 Honda Civic bearing Quebec plate Z15 XPL.
Anyone with information about these incidents or may have been a victim of fraud is asked to contact the Organized Fraud Unit at 613-236-1222 ext. 5292.
Sgt. Chantal Arsenault of the Ottawa Police Service organized fraud section says the grandparent scam is very devastating to victims.
"These fraudsters are very convincing, and they will prey on your fear," Arsenault said. "If this is happening to you, you really need to stop and question if this is real. You need to make the phone call to your grandchild or your sons and daughters before giving out any money. If in doubt, call the police, call a friend, or neighbour."
Arsenault says if you have any elderly parents, grandparents, friends or neighbours, talk to them about the risk these scams pose.
"You need to make them aware that this is happening," she said.
She added that if you fall victim to a scam, it's important to tell police.
"We understand that this can be extremely upsetting and some people may be embarrassed to report it but please report it. It might help solve other cases and lay more charges."
--With files from CTV News Ottawa's Katie Griffin.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
New analysis of Beethoven's hair reveals possible cause of mysterious ailments, scientists say
High levels of lead detected in authenticated locks of Ludwig van Beethoven's hair suggest that the composer had lead poisoning, which may have contributed to ailments he endured over the course of his life, including deafness, according to new research.
B.C. man used Bobcat as 'weapon' while chasing away homeless people, judge says
A B.C. man has been convicted of assault with a weapon after using a skid-steer Bobcat to chase two homeless people from his lawn, injuring one of them in the process.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Flat tire on a highway? Here's why you shouldn't try to fix it
If you're cruising down a highway and realize you have a flat tire, you may want to think twice before stopping to fix it on the side of the road.
Miss Teen USA steps down just days after Miss USA's resignation
Miss Teen USA resigned Wednesday, sending further shock waves through the pageant community just days after Miss USA said she would relinquish her crown.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.