Thunder Bay police have arrested a man in connection with reported grandparent scam activity in the city.
The Thunder Bay Police Service says its Economic Crime Unit began investigating after receiving several reports from local residents who had received suspicious phone calls.
Police say investigators determined a male suspect was in Thunder Bay and was involved in collecting money from potential victims.
A suspect was later arrested with help from the Break, Enter and Armed Robbery Unit after being recognized by an off-duty police officer.
A 56-year-old man from Quebec has been charged with fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 and personating a peace officer.
He was remanded into custody following an initial court appearance.
Police say the investigation remains ongoing and are asking anyone who believes they were also targeted or victimized to contact investigators.
The grandparent scam typically involves fraudsters contacting people and claiming a family member has been arrested or involved in an emergency and urgently needs money.
Police say scammers may pose as lawyers, police officers or court officials and may also spoof phone numbers to make calls appear legitimate.
The scams often target seniors and other vulnerable residents.
