The LPS has charged a Vermilion man in connection with a reported grandparent scam. (File photo: LNN)

By Justin Goulet

Lethbridge Police charge Vermilion man in connection with grandparent scam

Apr 17, 2024 | 10:13 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A central Alberta man has been charged by the Lethbridge Police Service (LPS).

The LPS says on April 15, 2024, members of the Crime Suppression Team responded to a report of fraud after a 75-year-old woman was the victim of an alleged grandparent scam.

According to police, the victim had been contacted by a man posing as a lawyer. The suspect reportedly claimed that the victim’s grandson was arrested after being involved in a collision and needed money for bail. The fraudster told the woman that he would send someone to collect the funds and instructed her to write an alphanumeric code on an envelope.

Police say the victim provided $3,400 in cash to a man that visited her home. Reportedly, while the man was still at her home, she received another call from the fake lawyer advising her that the initial sum was not enough, and he would contact her again to get more money. The LPS says the fake lawyer told the woman not to discuss the situation with anyone.

However, officials say she contacted a family member who confirmed her grandson was not in any trouble and called the police.

Week-in-review: Municipal election changes, a leadership debate and green bins

Apr 27, 2024

What's Happening in Lethbridge this weekend: April 26, 2024

Apr 26, 2024

Week-in-review: Federal Budget, water agreements and success for tourism industry

Apr 20, 2024

While officers were on scene, the victim received another call letting her know someone would be coming back to her home to collect the additional funds. A man arrived at the home a short while later and was arrested without incident.

Police say the man’s vehicle was found nearby and seized. The LPS notes that its investigation found that the man was staying at a local motel. Search warrants were executed on the suspect’s vehicle and motel room. Officers were able to recover a portion of the cash the victim had provided.

The LPS believes the suspect, who does not live in Lethbridge, was in the city to engage in fraudulent activity. The investigation is ongoing to find additional suspects.

Dimitar Stamatov, a 41-year-old Vermilion man, is charged with the following:

• Fraud under $5,000
• Attempted fraud over $5,000
• False pretenses

Stamatov has been released from custody and is scheduled to be in court on May 14.

The LPS believes there could be additional victims and are asking anyone who has experienced a similar situation to come forward.

READ MORE: Police in Lethbridge advising of “grandparent scam”

—

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.