Durham Regional Police – Suspect Charged in Grandparent Scam

One male suspect is facing charges after defrauding victims in a Grandparent Scam.  

On Thursday, August 18, 2022, the victims received a phone call from a male claiming to be their grandson who advised he was in trouble and needed bail money. Someone claiming to be an officer of the court then advised them that their grandson had been involved in a car accident injuring a pregnant female and $9,000 was required as bail. The suspect arranged for a “bondsman” or courier to pick up the money.

Having been the victims of the same scam earlier in the month, the victims immediately contacted police. Investigators from the DRPS Financial Crimes Unit attended the area and were able to arrest the suspect without incident.

Further investigation connected the suspect to another incident less than an hour before in which the victims provided $9,000.

Jaaziah BRERETON, age 22, of MARKHAM, is charged with Fraud Over $5,000 x2, and Possession of Proceeds of Crime.

DRPS would like to remind residents who receive any unanticipated requests for money to be extremely cautious and speak to a family member or trusted advisor for support. 

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact D/Cst. Middleton of the DRPS – Financial Crimes Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5321.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward.