According to police on September 4, Detective Sergeant Walter Richmond and Detective Arthur Canestrino concluded an investigation involving the theft of $8,000 in cash in a grand-parents scam, which victimized a 72-year-old New York resident.
Police say the Detectives identified the suspect as Juan Gil-Delao, a 22-year-old male who was subsequently arrested at his Clifton residence.
Mr. Gil-Delao was involved in targeting the 72 year old victim, who received a phone call on July 27, from a caller purporting to be his nephew.
The victim was informed that his nephew was arrested for D.W.I. and in need of money for legal aid.
Police say the caller instructed the victim to send $8,000.00 in cash via FedEx overnight to a Prospect Park address, with the victim complying.
Police charged Mr. Gil-Delao with one (1) count of theft and one (1) count of conspiracy to commit theft by deception and released pending a C.J.P. hearing.
The Detectives were assisted by Lt. William Rausch in the investigation and worked in conjunction with the New York State Police during the arrest.
”The outstanding work by our Detectives and Patrol Officers brings closure to this victim, while also serving as a reminder, to be aware of such scams which have become increasingly common.
I urge anyone to please contact your local Police Department immediately when receiving telephone calls of this nature” according to Chief Charlie Artie.