A 51-year-old Brampton man is facing multiple charges linked to a grandparent scam in York Region after four victims made reports to police.
All the victims received calls requesting money to help a grandchild or relative who was in jail or had legal issues. A man wearing a medical mask then came to pick it up the money, York Regional Police said in a news release.
Through the investigation, which started in March 2023, the officers identified a suspect and arrested him.
Aaron Hewitt of Brampton was charged with: fraud over $5,000; fraud under $5,000; extortion; conspiracy; possession of property obtained by crime; trafficking in property obtained by crime; and laundering proceeds of crime.
Investigators believe there may be more victims of this scam. Police have released photographs of the accused and urging any other victims or anyone with information to come forward.
To report an incident involving this suspect, contact Det. Cons. Andrew Milliard #1743 of the York Regional Police financial crimes unit at 1-905-830-0303, ext. 6612, or email [email protected].
To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
If you have been a victim of fraud and have not lost any money, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or call 1-888-495-8501.
A list of ongoing scams and tips on how to avoid them can be found at yrp.ca/fraud.
