
June 6, 2019 · 0 Comments
The Orangeville Police Service is investigating a report of a fraud that resulted in an Orangeville woman being scammed out of $13,500.
On Monday, May 27,the woman was contacted by a male who stated that he was a lawyer representing her son, who had been involved in a car accident and was now in jail.
The caller requested that he be sent $7000 to represent the son. The victim agreed and followed instructions given her by the caller. The man continued to contact the victim, requesting several additional payments to cover various expenses and bail money supposedly imposed by the court.
On Tuesday, May 28, the man advised the victim that her son had been released from jail. The victim contacted her son who advised that he was never in jail, at which time the woman realized that she had been the victim of a fraud. The total loss was $13,500. The incident was then reported to police.
Police are working with the victim’s bank to investigate the incident.
“This type of scam has been around for years. It’s a version of a scam known as ‘The Grandparent Scam’, advised OPS Constable Scott Davis. “If someone is contacting you making such claims we encourage you to make further inquiries to confirm the information you are receiving. If it sounds questionable then it likely is”.
Police encourage the public to report these types of crime to police if they become victims.
Anyone having information regarding any crime is encouraged to call the Orangeville Police Service at 519-941-2522 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.crimestopperssdm.com.
Daytime residential break-in investigated
Orangeville Police are investigating a break-in at a Buena Vista Drive residence early May 28.
On Tuesday, May 28, at approximately 12:45 p.m., a suspect or suspects used force to enter the front door of a residence on Buena Vista Drive. The home owner was not present at the time. The victim reports that there was nothing missing and it is believed that an audible security alarm caused the culprit(s) to leave the residence.
Police are continuing their investigation and would like to speak with anyone who may have noticed any suspicious persons or suspicious activity in the area of Buena Vista Drive and Clarke Avenue that day.
Police also remind residents to lock vehicles and out-buildings when not in use to avoid being a victim of theft.
Warmer weather traditionally shows an increase in property crimes. Such crimes can often be avoided by ensuring that valuables are removed from vehicles and that doors are locked when not in use. In addition to vehicles, it is good practice to close and lock garages, and backyard sheds.
Residents are also encouraged to be vigilant for suspicious people and vehicles in their neighborhoods. If you witness any suspicious activity, please call police.
The Orangeville Police Service wishes to thank residents for their support in helping to keep our community safe! Anyone having information regarding any crime is encouraged to call the Orangeville Police Service at 519-941-2522 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or on. ne at www.crimestopperssdm.com.
Counterfeit currency reported
The Orangeville Police Service says counterfeit Canadian $50 bills have been reported at locations in the community.
Police have received three reports of the use of counterfeit $50 bills in the past two days.
Purchases using the counterfeit currency were made at various retail businesses throughout Orangeville. Police remind merchants to be vigilant when receiving $50 bills, especially for small purchases.
“With this being a major tourist weekend for Orangeville, with the annual Blues and Jazz Festival taking place, we wanted to make the community aware of these counterfeit incidents,” explained Constable Scott Davis.
For further information regarding counterfeit currency detection contact the Orangeville Police Service. Information can also be found online at: www.bankofcanada.ca/banknotes/counterfeit-prevention
Anyone having information with regards to any crime in our community is encouraged to call the Orangeville Police Service at 519-941-2522 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.crimestopperssdm.com