Grandpa Scam

DATE & TIME: 03-19-2019 @ 11:00 am

LOCATION: Rural Clatonia

OFFENSE: Grandpa Scam

CASE #: 2019-1352

A resident who lives between Clatonia and Wilber was a victim of the “Grandpa Scam”, where a suspect calls an elderly victim and says, “Grandpa” (or Grandma), and the victim responds with the name of which one of their grandchildren they think is calling. The suspect then tells a story about being in jail and needing money for bail. This time, however, the Gage County resident, instead of sending money, called their child, who is the parent of the supposed grandchild, and asked if they were in jail. The son confirmed the grandchildren were in high school and not in jail, then additionally confirmed their parent had not lost any money. 

The Gage County Sheriff’s Office urges residents to use caution when dealing with financial matters.  Warning signs/red flags that a scam are occurring is when they ask for privacy, secrecy, or do not let you consult family, friends, or law enforcement. Other warning signs are requesting payment through non-traditional business methods, such as getting gift cards and providing the redemption information, having cash sent through the mail, or requesting banking account information.

Do not provide this information to unknown or suspicious sources. Call the local police department or call the Gage County Sheriff’s Office and ask to speak with an investigator.

Sheriff Millard “Gus” Gustafson #903

Investigator T. Hanson #90310