Police charge two men for their part in recent grandparent scams

Two men have been charged for their part in a number of recent grandparent scams that police suspect used artificial intelligence (AI) to make them appear more credible.

Over the past week, Lethbridge Police have received reports of scammers using AI to mimic the voices of victims’ relatives, usually grandchildren. The fraudsters call the victims and, using their grandchild’s voice, state that they are in jail and need of $9,000-$10,000 for bail. Then, imitating legitimate local law offices, the scammers arrange to pick-up money at the victim’s residence. 

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. 

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. 

Police believe there may be additional victims and are asking anyone who has experienced similar circumstances to come forward. Call 403-328-4444 if you believe you have been victimized in a grandparent scam or any other fraud. 

LPS is also advising citizens to continue to be aware of the grandparent scam and to talk with older relatives about what to do if they receive a scam call:

• 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