Two people have been apprehended by the Lethbridge Police Service in connection to a scam. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Two southern Albertans charged in ‘grandparent scam’

Sep 4, 2024 | 8:37 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) has apprehended a pair of suspects in connection to allegedly fraudulent activities.

The police service has received multiple reports of scammers trying to use artificial intelligence (AI) to mimic the voices of victims’ relatives, usually their grandchildren.

The fraudsters, using the relative’s voice, will state that they are in jail and need anywhere from $9,000-$10,000 for bail.

They will then imitate legitimate local law offices and arrange for the money to be picked up at the victim’s home.

Jordon Ian Henderson, 31, of Claresholm, is charged with possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000. Henderson was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court October 23, 2024.

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Johan Wiebe Klassen, 31, of Stirling, is charged with possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000. Wiebe Klassen was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court October 23, 2024.

The LPS is asking residents to speak with their older residents about what they should do if they receive a scam call. Some tips include:

• Always verify the caller’s identity and the legitimacy of their story. Call the grandchild directly and if they can’t be reached, contact their parents, siblings or another relative who can help verify the story
• If a caller claims to be a police officer, lawyer, judge or other official call the police station or courthouse directly to confirm their identity and the legitimacy of the call
• Do not use any phone numbers or other contact details provided by the caller to try and verify information
• Do not provide money, gift cards, bitcoin or any other form of payment to someone you do not know
• Bail is always paid in person at the police station, courthouse or correctional centre and receipt of payment is provided. Police and court officials will never attend someone’s home to pick-up cash
• Never disclose any personal information over the phone to someone you don’t know

Is it believed that there may be additional victims. If you believe you have been victimized by a grandparent scam or any other type of fraud, phone the LPS at 403-438-4444.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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