Police release sketch of ‘grandparent scam’ suspect
Township Police released a sketch of the suspect wanted in connection with a phone scam in the township in early January.
On Jan. 6, the police officers were dispatched to a residence on Shannondell Boulevard for the report of a theft. It was learned that a 90-year-old resident had become the victim of a scam.
The victim stated that she received a phone call at approximately 9 a.m. and the caller identified himself as Robert Stevens from the public defender’s office. He informed the victim that her grandson had been in an accident and was arrested for a DUI.
At that point the caller put another male caller on the phone. This person, claiming to be the victim’s grandson confirmed the information and told her that he needed $8,500 for bail. The victim told the caller that she wanted to help him but was unable to drive and would not be able to get him the money.
The victim also told the caller that she needed to check to make sure she had enough money. The victim advised at that point she counted the cash in her apartment and informed him that she had the money. Upon learning this information, the caller told her that someone from his office would come by to pick up the cash. The victim was instructed to put the money in an envelope and have it ready for their arrival. The victim also advised that her grandson (the caller) was adamant that she not tell anyone about this.
At approximately 1 p.m. the same day, a subject showed up at the victim’s residence and collected the envelope. He provided her with a carbon copy receipt for the transaction.
The suspect is described as being a light skinned Hispanic male, with distinct green colored eyes, dark wavy hair, approximately 5-foot-7-inches tall, and of with an average build who had difficulty speaking English.
Two phone numbers were used to call the victim, 404342-6754 and 813-556-6202. These phone numbers were searched and found to be part of a similar scam.
The sketch is of the suspect that went to Shannondell
at Valley Forge to pick up the money.
If anyone recognizes the subject from the sketch please contact, Detective Charles King. cking@lowerprovidence.org 610-635-3554