Winnipeg police have arrested two women from Ontario in connection to what is commonly referred to as the “grandparent scam”
The scam often involves a person posing as a grandchild calling an elderly person and claiming to be in serious legal trouble. The scammer then tells the victim they are in urgent need of money. Often times the caller will cry and express urgency and secrecy around the demands.
The accused were identified by police during their investigation and on July 29, 2022, a search warrant was executed at a Somerville Avenue residence. Officers were able to find evidence linking the suspects to the offences.
Police say that over a 10 day period nine seniors were defrauded for a total of about $100,000.00
18-year-old Vanessa Fatima Alves Dasilva from North York, Ontario has been charged for her alleged involvement with six counts of fraud over $5,000, Conspiracy to Commit and Indictable offence, Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000, Forgery and Use a Forged Document.
25-year-old Gabriella Edith Marie Paradis of Walpole Island, Ontario was charged for her alleged involvement with two counts of Fraud Over $5,000, Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence and Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000.
Police say that the accused and the victims did not previously know each other.
Police continue to investigate.
© News4.ca 2022
