Help us identify this fraud suspect - cops
Fredericton Police Force recently warned about recent rise in grandparent scams locally
Fredericton police officers are investigating another instance of the oft-used and frequently successful “grandparent scam,” but this time, they’ve got images of a suspect.
The Fredericton Police Force released stills Saturday through social media from security footage depicting a suspect they’re seeking in connection with a fraud.
The footage is from a location on Venus Court, just off of Priestman Street in the city’s uptown area, from Jan. 6.
Police are hoping members of the public can aid in the effort to identify the suspect.
The dissemination of the images of the suspect come on the heels of a recent announcement by the Fredericton Police Force (FPF) about a spike in such fraud offences.
“One of the most recent and concerning scams is the grandparent scam, where fraudsters pose as a child or grandchild in distress, urgently requesting money. This scam targets the elderly, exploiting their love and concern for their family members,” the force said in a release issued Jan. 9.
“In 2024, FPF responded to more than 350 instances of scams and fraud of various forms, costing area residents more than $500,000.”
It also offered tips to ensure people don’t fall victim to such scam artists. It advised people to verify the caller is who they say they are by asking questions only they would know, to be aware police agencies never ask for money, to refuse to be rushed into making quick decisions in serious situations and to contact other family members to confirm the story presented by potential scammers.
“We urge everyone to connect with elderly, vulnerable individuals, or those who are not on social media,” the force said earlier this month.
“Regular communication can help them stay informed and less susceptible to scams. Share this information with them and encourage them to reach out if they receive suspicious calls or messages.”
Anyone with information about the pictured suspect or about potential encounters with scammers is urged to call the Fredericton Police Force at 506-460-2300.
Those wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the secure P3 Mobile App or visiting Secure Web Tips online at www.crimenb.ca.
Tipster can cite police file no. 2025-447 with regard to information about the individual seen in the photos.
The Fredericton Independent can be reached at ftonindependent@gmail.com.