KENT COUNTY, MI – A New York man is accused of stealing thousands in a scam targeting grandparents, Kent County sheriff’s deputies said.
Robert Augustin, 27, was arraigned Monday, Jan. 31, in 63rd District Court on charges of conducting a criminal enterprise and stealing a financial transaction device, or credit card.
He is held on $250,000 bond.
Over the last week, Kent County sheriff’s detectives investigated several complaints of “Grandparent Bail Scam,” police said.
The scheme typically involves someone posing as a grandchild who is in jail and needs money to post bail. The grandparents are pressured to send money through a courier who picks up the cash, sheriff’s deputies said.
“These scams are far too prevalent, and we are glad to apprehend the suspect and help bring closure to Kent County’s victims,” Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young said in a statement.
“We remind the public to be vigilant when confronted with an unexpected prize or problem. Take time to pause and contact someone else you trust for advice before sending anyone money,” she said.
The investigation continues and police are trying to determine if there are other victims.
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