MOHAVE COUNTY, Ariz. – The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public of an ongoing scam. This scam is not new, but many people still become victimized.

An 89-year-old Desert Hills woman received a call from her grandson needing money as he was recently in an automobile accident in New Mexico.  The victim said the caller sounded like her grandson.  The victim further said that she recently spoke with her daughter-in-law several days ago and she was informed of his accident in New Mexico.   The victim said she sent $2,000 via Western Union to New Mexico.

Later that day, the victim said that she kept thinking about this call and she decided to contact her daughter-in-law. The victim further said that her daughter-in-law advised her that her grandson is currently on a plane traveling to Japan for business.  The victim realized that she had been scammed and called law enforcement.

Deputies received the Western Union receipt and the money transfer form.  Deputies contacted a representative from Western Union.  The representative said that the money had been picked up shortly after it was sent.

Watchwords:

Always confirm with family members before sending money.  Also, be cautious when it comes to sending money via Western Union as transactions are extremely difficult to trace.  If you suspect fraud, contact your local law enforcement office.