Police make three arrests linked to prevalent phone scam

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on June 21, 2025.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

Members of the Medicine Hat Police Service Criminal Investigation section have charged three individuals with fraud and theft after a complex investigation following a grandparent scam attempt.

According to officers a local senior couple was contacted by the individuals who attempted a widespread phone scam known as the “grandparent scam” by requesting a large cash payment under the pretense of securing money for bail.

The suspects, who have not been identified by police, instructed the couple to withdraw money from their bank on June 18 and later arranged for a person to attend their residence to collect the funds.

“Through investigative efforts, police were able to identify and arrest three individuals involved in the incident,” reads the press release.

Police executed a search warrant and found evidence connecting the suspect to the scam.

All three suspects have been charged with fraud over $5,000 as well as theft over $5,000. One suspect also faces an additional charge for possession of proceeds of crime.

All suspects have been released with conditions and are scheduled to appear before court Aug. 20.

Police say another person was released without charges, pending further investigation.

“The Medicine Hat Police Service reminds the public to be cautious of unsolicited calls requesting money, particularly those involving pressure tactics and secrecy. Anyone receiving suspicious communication is encouraged to verify with trusted family or contact police directly.”

Last October, Medicine Hat police arrested and charged three suspects for their involvement in a similar phone scam targeting aging residents in the community.

Variations on the scam can include someone pretending to be an old neighbour or friend of the family who is in an emergency situation and they are in distress and require money to be sent to them immediately.

Scammers will typically ask for the payments to be wired to them or will request the codes from gift cards as well as sending a courier to collect cash.

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