Hamilton police make arrest after senior was victimized in phone scam
Published February 8, 2022 at 2:50 pm
The Hamilton Police Service (HPS) arrested a 19-year-old man in relation to a phone scam operation that victimized a local senior.
Police say a 77-year-old Hamilton woman was scammed on Feb. 3, after receiving a phone call from a male suspect who pretended to be her son. The male informed her that he had been involved in an accident and had been arrested by police. The suspect then told the woman that he required a large sum of money to post bail.
The woman agreed to pay the sum and arrangements were made to pick up cash at the woman’s residence.
The suspect contacted the woman again, and she was told that additional money was required. Arrangements were, again, made to pick up cash from the woman’s residence; however, police say they became aware of the arrangement and were able to intervene once the individual arrived.
Quebec resident, Romain Javari Roberts was arrested and charged with fraud over $5,000 and breach of probation.
The Hamilton Police Service provided the following advice:
Videos
- Be suspicious of calls that demand money or immediate action.
- No law enforcement agency will demand immediate payment of currency.
- Never offer information to the caller.
- If the fraudster asks a question like “Do you know who this is?”, simply say no and have them tell you.
- Contact another family member to confirm the story.
- Remember to never send money to someone under uncertain conditions.
- Don’t be afraid to say “No”.
If you believe you have fallen victim to such a scam, please contact the HPS non-emergency line at 905-546-4925.
insauga's Editorial Standards and Policies advertising