Earlier this month while attending a meeting of the South West Florida Alliance of Homeowners I was approached by Englewood resident Virginia Warner. She told me about a phone call she recently received from a male voice who said, "Grandma?" Virginia replied, "Jonathan?"

The alleged grandson said "yes it's me." He went on to say that he was in jail in Toronto Canada. He and some friends had gone there to attend a wedding and had been in a serious auto accident causing extensive damage to another vehicle. He needed $4,600 wired to pay for damages to the other car. When he paid that amount he would be released from custody and be able to return home. Further conversation ensued whereupon Mrs. Warner told her "grandson" that due to the present financial situation she was not able to send any money to him and suggested he contact his father.  At this point the caller abruptly hung up.

She immediately called her grandson's father who told her that Jonathan was safely at home and had not been to Canada.

This scam has been around awhile with some adaptations.

It is known in law enforcement jargon as "the Bite." That name comes from the old adage of putting the bite on someone for money after relating a hard luck story.

While with the NYPD I arrested a number of individuals using this and similar modus operandi. In those cases relatives such as aunts and uncles were also used. Calls were made to houses of worship with the con artists identifying themselves as a member of the congregation with problems such as being stranded or arrested, or the victim of a crime. In all cases it was requested that monies be wired.

Should you be contacted in this manner do not respond unless you are absolutely sure you know the identity of the relative or friend making the call. Contact another relative or friend if your are not sure and tell the person on the phone you will call them back after checking.

Congratulations to Sarasota Sheriff's Captains Jim Lilly and Kevin Kenny who were promoted to Major, and Major Steve Burns promoted to Colonel.

Sad Note:
 
Law enforcement recently lost a good cop. Police Officer Steve Sadler passed suddenly this month. Steve served twenty years with the NYPD and received the Police Combat Cross for heroic action in the performance of duty. He also served honorably for eighteen years in the SRQ Airport Police Department, attaining the rank of Corporal. He was my friend and will be sorely missed by all who came into contact with him.

Take care, be careful and I'll see you at the next Crime Scene.

God bless and protect our Military.

Ken Kleinlein is a former detective with the NYPD special frauds squad, working as a frauds and crime consultant/information specialist, coordinating with the Sarasota and Charlotte Sheriffs Offices, along with federal, state, and local law enforcement on matters pertaining to crime prevention and public safety.