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
Asking rent prices up 9.3% across Canada, Ontario sees only decline: report
A new report says the average asking rent for a home in Canada in April was up 9.3 per cent compared with a year ago, while a slight month-over-month increase was also recorded for the first time since January.
What is basic income, and how would it impact me?
Parliamentarians are considering a pair of bills aiming to lift people out of poverty through a basic income program, but some fear these types of systems could result in more taxes for Canadians who are already financially struggling.
'I may have some nightmares:' Man survives being bitten by 2 sharks in Bahamas
A man who was bitten by two sharks in the Bahamas said Thursday he's 'thankful that I'm here' while sharing his story of survival.
Magnitude 4.2 earthquake reported off Vancouver Island's west coast
A 4.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded west of Vancouver Island early Friday morning.
Mexico's president accuses press and volunteer searchers for missing people of 'necrophilia'
The administration of Mexico's president has accused the press and volunteer searchers who look for the bodies of missing people of 'necrophilia,' comments that drew criticism this week.
WATCH Expecting an interest rate cut in June? Don't bet on it after new jobs data
Canada's labour market rebounded in April, adding more than 90,000 jobs, a staggering number of new positions after four consecutive months of little change.
Out-of-control wildfire burning near Fort McMurray
As of 9 a.m. on Friday, the wildfire burning 28 kilometres southwest of the northeastern Alberta city was 25 hectares in size.
Prince William says wife Kate is 'doing well'
Prince William said on Friday his wife Kate was 'doing well' in a rare public comment about the Princess of Wales as she undergoes preventative chemotherapy for cancer.
'Irate male' assaulted Newfoundland officers with block of cheese, police say
Police in Newfoundland say patrol officers were assaulted Thursday by a "very irate male" wielding a block of cheese.