APPLETON — Sheriff’s offices in northeast Wisconsin are warning residents about a growing number of reports recently of what’s known as the grandparents scam.
Scammers target elderly victims for cash with fraudulent requests to post bond for loved ones in jail.
The Outagamie County Sheriff’s Office is currently working in conjunction with the Brown County Sheriff’s Department, De Pere Police Department, Fox Valley Metro Police Department and Ashwaubenon Public Safety to identify and arrest those individuals responsible.
Scammers are targeting elderly victims by phone and advising victims their loved ones are in jail or have been involved in an accident and in need of immediate financial assistance.
The scammers are asking victims to withdraw large sums of cash ($5,000-$45,000) and asking to standby as a “courier / bondsman” would be arriving shortly to take custody of their “bond.”
Law Enforcement strongly encourages citizens to never entertain these scam artists or provide any financial assistance.
Contact your local jurisdiction if you believe you have been the victim of a similar incident. If you have any additional information reference similar incidents, please contact the following:
Detective Sgt. Michael Horst, Brown County Sheriff’s Department – (920) 448-4236
Investigator Aaron Dufek, Ashwaubenon Public Safety – (920) 593-4474
Detective Aaron Hanson, De Pere Police Department – (920) 339-4084 (Ext. 1279)
Detective James Wall, Outagamie County Sheriff’s Office – (920) 832-5498
Key Points to Consider:
- Verify the Information: Always verify the identity of the caller. If you receive a call asking for money, hang up and contact the local jurisdiction or police department directly using a trusted phone number.
- Do Not Withdraw / Send Cash: Scammers often ask for cash or prepaid debit cards. Under no circumstances should you send money without verifying the request.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect you or someone you know has been a victim of this scam, please report it.
