Morrison, IL, residents are being targeted often by scammers, according to Chief of Police Brian Melton, and it has been occurring for years. Worse, certain local people are being “linked” by the phone bandits, to make the victimizing more believable.
A man reported to the Editor that he was called at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 6, 2017. Upon answering, a male asked him, “Grandpa?” The unrecognizable voice claimed to “have a cold.” The elder man asked, “Is this [a grandson’s name]?” Later, he realized he had given a vital piece of information, something the scammer could use to manipulate his heartstrings. After a few minutes, the scammer began his pitiful story and explained the reason he needed Grandpa to send him $3000. This was “for an attorney’s retainer to get [him] out of jail. You will get it back,” he assured our local man, because he was innocent of the drug charges. By this time the man knew he had a scammer on the line, and he decided to have a little fun.
“Why don’t you call you mother, instead of me?” “Oh, I don’t want to worry her.” The scammer had a ready excuse for why he wanted “Grandpa” to send him the money. Finally, the smarter man ended the call and saved himself $3000.
Chief Melton described a situation that did not end as well for a Morrison woman. Over two years, her scammer involved the woman in an ever-increasing opportunity for winning a lottery. Each time he called, she could do this by sending $2000. In the end, the victim had spent $60,000 and remained a lottery loser. The Chief stated she has absolutely no recourse. He believes the scam calls originated in the Caribbean, Jamaica perhaps.
United Way of Whiteside County presents a free “Elder Scam Alert Forum” from 10:00 a.m. to noon, Thursday, March 30, 2017, in the Community Room at Sterling Federal Bank, 110 E 4th Street, Sterling, IL.
Representatives from the Illinois Attorney General, Sterling Police Department, Whiteside County Senior Center, and other organizations will speak. Learn about current scams and frauds being targeted at Senior Citizens and how to help yourself–or someone you love–from becoming the next victim.
Seating is limited. Call 815-625-7973 by Monday, March 27, to reserve your seat.
United Way fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community.
