Region of Peel – Investigators from the Fraud Bureau have charged a Toronto man in relation to a growing grandparent scam.
In June 2023, a victim received a text message from an unknown phone number indicating it was from a family member, and they were using a friend’s phone as their phone was damaged and inoperable.
The text messages continued, stating that the family member had an unpaid bill that needed immediate attention and requested funds from the victims to help.
Once the victim agreed to help, the suspect sent the victim an e-mail address to transfer the funds.
The victim transferred thousands of dollars to the accused who they thought was family. After contacting the legitimate family member, they realize they were a victim of a scam.
During the investigation, a second victim in British Columbia was identified.
On March 13, 2024, Charles Junior Cleveland King, a 39 year- old from Toronto was arrested and charged with the following offences;
– Fraud Under $5000 x2
– Possession of Property Obtained by Crime.
He is to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice on April 15, 2024 to answer to these charges.
Investigators believe that there may be additional victims, and police are encouraging them to come forward and file a report with their local police.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Fraud Bureau at (905) 453–2121, ext. 3335.
Information may also be left anonymously by calling Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or by visiting peelcrimestoppers.ca.
Peel Regional Police would like to take this opportunity during International Fraud Prevention Month to remind the public of ongoing scams such as this and to make elderly and vulnerable family and friends aware. Additionally, if you receive a similar text, always take the time to confirm with your family before sending money. We encourage our community to learn more about these and other trends currently affecting Canadians by visiting the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
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