Warning issued as “grandparent scam” reports rise; two suspects charged
Regina police and White Butte RCMP are warning the public about a sharp rise in so-called “grandparent” or “emergency” scams after several seniors were defrauded of more than $40,000.
The scheme typically begins with a phone call claiming a loved one has been involved in a criminal incident and urgently needs cash for legal help. Investigators say callers often pressure victims, impose fake “gag orders” and send someone in person to collect the money.
Police say there are currently five confirmed victims in Regina and one in the White Butte area.
As part of a provincewide investigation, Regina Police Service officers arrested two suspects on Dec. 2. Roughly $20,000 of the stolen money has been recovered.
Ciprian Teodor, 50, and Alexandra Condurache, 40, both from Quebec, are jointly charged with two counts of fraud over $5,000, one count of fraud under $5,000, and two counts of attempted fraud over $5,000. Teodor also faces a charge of failing to comply with an undertaking. The pair made their first appearance in Regina provincial court on Dec. 3.
Police believe more victims have yet to come forward.
“Often the victims of these types of frauds are seniors, but anyone can fall victim,” said Staff Sgt. Shortland of the RCMP’s South District. “High-pressure tactics are used to form urgent situations and often involve emotional manipulation. Educate yourself and speak with your loved ones about fraud awareness and empower them with tactics to use if they receive a suspicious call.”
Anyone who believes they have been targeted is asked to contact Regina police at 306-777-6500 or the RCMP at 310-RCMP.
Authorities urge residents to verify unexpected claims about loved ones by hanging up and calling family members directly, to be wary of requests for payment through gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency, and to speak with their bank before making large withdrawals.
More information on fraud prevention is available through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.