Another Scam Targets Elderly in South Lewis County

The Lewis County Sheriff’s Office want to ensure no more elderly citizens fall victim to a recent scam hitting Lewis County.

The most recent scam targeting the elderly in Lewis County consists of suspects calling citizens and telling them they have won huge lotteries. The suspects then instruct the citizens to wire money or send a money order “for a winning fee”, before they can collect their winnings.

Detectives have taken reports from a few victims so far. Victims have been from Toledo, Winlock, and Vader.

One of the victims, a 91 year old female, sent $1400.00 in hopes of receiving over a million dollars in “winnings”.

It is believed the suspects originate and are working out of Jamaica.

Detectives are planning on providing more education on this scam and others targeting elderly adults in the near future.

Sheriff Steve Mansfield said, “If it seems too good to be true, it is. Real lotteries don’t ask you to pay money up front before you receive your winnings. If you are confused, unsure, or just want to make sure you are dealing with a legitimate person or company, call our office. Education about scams and fraud is the most effective way to deal with this problem. We are more than happy to help our senior citizens ensure they are not being scammed. For those of you who have elderly parents, friends, or neighbors, make sure you take the time to talk about these types of scams”.

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