'Grandparent scam': Calgary man facing fraud charges in Sherwood Park
A 40-year-old man from Calgary is facing a fraud charge after Mounties allege he collected thousands of dollars as part of a "grandparent scam" in Strathcona County.
"On May 9, the victim received a call from a male claiming to be their grandson who needed $8,000 US for bail money," Const. Chantelle Kelly wrote in a Thursday release.
"Another male claiming to be a police officer corroborated the story and advised their grandson had been arrested for drug possession and required bail money before being released from jail."
RCMP allege a man went to the home of the victim and collected the money, before it was realized it was a scam.
"The following day (the victim) received another phone call requesting additional money and arranged another pick up at the residence. The victim contacted police to report the scam," Kelly explained.
RCMP arrested Jeb Trim of Calgary and he was charged with fraud over $5,000.
Police shared a photo of Trim because they believe he may have defrauded other people.
Trim was released from custody but is scheduled to appear in Sherwood Park Provincial Court on June 1.
RCMP released tips on what to do if people call you asking for money:
- "Get off the phone and call or text the person who (supposedly) called. If you can’t reach them, check with a family member to get the real story. Even if the scammer said not to."
- "Don’t give your address, personal information, or cash to anyone who contacts you."
Anyone with information regarding Trim is asked to call Strathcona County RCMP Detachment at 780-467-7741 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
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.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
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.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
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.
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.
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.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.