Senior praises police after bank account drained

By Gillian Slade on July 24, 2018.

gslade@medicinehatnews.com  @MHNGillianSlade

After the shock of discovering her bank account had been fraudulently depleted, a local senior says the Medicine Hat Police Service went above and beyond to help.

Yvonne Baker, 83, had some routine appointments earlier this month, including a stop at her bank to draw some cash. When she saw the balance she realized something had gone wrong. She was not aware that her cheque book was missing and that it had been used to deplete her bank account.

“It was very traumatic, a lot of money missing, all my pension,” Baker said tearfully.

After the bank had helped her determine what had happened, she went to the police station to report the situation.

They were kind, loving, caring, courteous, considerate, understanding and did not rush her, said Baker. They listened carefully to what she had to say.

But it was what happened next that left Baker amazed.

Two officers drove her to a nearby supermarket and paid for the groceries she had intended buying that day but no longer could afford.

“Our police officers have bent over backwards,” said Baker with tear-filled eyes.

They took her home, carried the groceries inside and even offered to pack them away for her.

“It was like having your son come in here,” she said.

A day or two later Victims Assistance arrived with the police to deliver a box of food.

“I wish more people would appreciate the police,” said Baker. “The police force has gone above and beyond. There isn’t enough appreciation I can give them.”

A member of Hillcrest Church, Baker says she has received a gift certificate from them and some cash. She has a pretty card from the church prominently displayed in her home.

The experience of her cheque book being stolen still feels traumatic but the kindness of others has been overwhelming.

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