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Grandparent Fraud Scheme Unravels in Plattsburgh
PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – In a shocking display of greed and cunning, Christie Joseph, 24, and Naromie Joseph, 28, have been brought to justice for their roles in a grandparent fraud scheme.
According to the indictment, the Josephs preyed upon the love of relatives, convincing elderly victims to send them money under the guise of helping their grandchildren in trouble. The indictment details how the Josephs would collect the money, which would then be delivered to others.
As alleged, the Josephs exploited the vulnerability of their victims, creating an emergency situation to elicit financial assistance. Authorities warn citizens to be cautious when receiving such requests, urging them to verify the existence of a family emergency before taking any action.
United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian emphasized the importance of due diligence, stating, ‘As alleged, these two defendants preyed upon the love of relatives and manufactured an emergency situation to get money. Citizens should confirm the existence of a family emergency before taking financial steps to assist a loved one.’
Acting Special Agent in Charge Kennedy of Homeland Security Investigations added, ‘These types of scams, while nothing new, are becoming increasingly pervasive and sophisticated. And more often than not, these unscrupulous scammers are targeting the elderly, which is why HSI is urging the public to act as their first line of defense by taking some very basic precautions.’
The indictment charges Christie Joseph and Naromie Joseph with conspiracy to commit mail fraud and four counts of mail fraud, with each defendant facing a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine if convicted.
The defendants appeared in federal court in Plattsburgh on April 6, 2015, and were detained pending a detention hearing set for April 9, 2015, at 8:30 am.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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