Astute bank teller prevents a elderly Suncoast man from handing over 15,000 to Grandparent Scammers

Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC

BPD

This is Mr. Campbell – who was NOT a victim of the “Grandparent Scam,” thanks to early intervention by his bank and our Elder Fraud Unit. Mr. Campbell, 93, attempted to withdraw $15,000 from Truist Bank after receiving a panicked call from his grandson, who claimed he was in jail, needed help, and didn’t want his Dad to know.

Days earlier, BPD’s Elder Fraud Unit visited Truist Bank to discuss scams targeting senior citizens. With this heightened awareness, the bank employee who met with Mr. Campbell sensed a scam and asked him to return to collect the money the next day. She then contacted the Elder Fraud Unit. Det. Curulla and Officer McNeal met with Mr. Campbell, verified his grandson was not in jail, and explained the alarming tactics scammers use to prey on older adults.

Because of the partnerships BPD is building within our community, Mr. Campbell was not a victim. The scammer likely would have asked for much more than the initial $15,000 payment. Unfortunately many senior citizens fall prey to scammers every day. Find resources to combat elder fraud on our website: bradentonpd.com/elder-fraud-unit