16 Charged in Widespread 'Grandparent Scam' Defrauding Elderly Americans

Prosecutors indict 16 individuals for scamming elderly Americans out of millions through a sophisticated grandparent scam operated from the Dominican Republic and the U.S.

Sixteen individuals, including several from the Dominican Republic, face charges of mail and wire fraud, and money laundering, with each facing up to 20 years in prison.
The scammers impersonated grandchildren and other relatives in distress, convincing elderly victims to send money for fabricated emergencies.
Over $35 million was stolen from elderly victims across states like New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts.
The operation involved 'openers' who initiated contact and 'closers' who impersonated legal officials to collect money.
Federal and local law enforcement agencies emphasize their commitment to protecting elderly citizens from such financial schemes.