NEWS RELEASE

RIVERSIDE POLICE DEPARTMENT

31 Riverside Road, Riverside, IL 60546

03 April 2014
Contact:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sgt. Bill Gutschick
wgutschick@riverside.il.us

708.447.2127

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@pdriverside

Police Warn Residents of Phone Scam

The Riverside Police Department has been receiving information about various versions of
scams against the elderly. On Wednesday, April 2, 2014, the Department received a
complaint from an elderly resident who was in the process of withdrawing a large sum of
money from a local bank. The resident was taking money out to purchase several gift cards
from a local retailer. Those cards were going to be used to provide bail for her grandson, who
allegedly was under arrest in Naperville-This information was false.
After the gift cards were purchased, the resident was to contact a phone number that the
scammers provided. The bank recognized this as a scam and contacted the police. The
investigation showed that the number was routed through Quebec Canada. A further
confirmation was made with the municipality that allegedly arrested the grandson, which was
found to be false.
Sgt. Bill Gutschick stated, These scams are very prevalent today and they come in various
versions. The vast majority of the telephone calls originate out of the country such as Nigeria.
Be wary about any contact from anyone by telephone or even at your front door. Double
check the information that is being provided and if youre even a little unsure DONT SEND
IT. Call the Police Department and have an officer verify the information.