The Windsor Police Service has charged a 35-year-old man in connection with a grandparent scam that targeted a senior citizen.

Shortly before 2:30 p.m. on March 4, 2026, police received a report of a fraud involving an 81-year-old victim.

Investigators learned the victim had received multiple phone calls from individuals claiming that the victim’s grandson had been arrested and urgently required money to be released from jail.

During the calls, the suspects alleged the grandson had been involved in a motor vehicle collision in which a pregnant woman was struck and her baby died. The victim was told their grandson was in custody and urgently needed $5,000 for bail.

The victim received approximately 10 calls from individuals using private phone numbers who claimed to be police officers, lawyers, and other officials attempting to confirm the story and request the money.

Later that day, a suspect visited the victim’s residence and collected an envelope containing $5,000.

Investigators with the Financial Crimes Unit identified a 35 year old male as the suspect.

Shortly after 6 p.m. on March 9, members of the Problem-Oriented Policing Unit (POP) located and arrested the suspect in the 1900 block of Longfellow Avenue. He has been charged with fraud over $5,000.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Windsor Police Financial Crimes Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4330.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at
www.catchcrooks.com.

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