Press Release: Suspect arrested in ‘Grandchild in distress’ scam

January 12, 2023

Press Release
Case # 22-018500

 

Suspect arrested after targeting elderly victim with a ‘Grandchild in distress’ scam

         On May 26, 2022, an elderly Glenside couple contacted the Abington Police Department to report that they had just been the victims of fraud. They received a phone call from a male claiming to be their grandson. The caller told them that he was in legal trouble in another state and he required substantial funds to be released from jail. The couple, concerned for their grandson’s well-being, agreed to pay the money. A short time later, a suspect arrived at their home and collected several thousand dollars in “bail money” from the victims. An Abington detective soon realized that the same suspect had committed similar crimes throughout the region. Over the next several months, the detective continued to gather evidence, which resulted in an arrest warrant being issued for the suspect, Cristopher Enmanual Mauricio, 20 years of age, from the 100 block of N. 9^th St. in Reading. Mauricio eluded capture for several months, but was arrested in York County last week. On January 10, 2023, Abington Police traveled to York County and arrested Mauricio. Mauricio is facing numerous felony theft related charges. He is being held at Montgomery County Correctional Facility on $2,500 cash bail.

The ‘Grandchild in distress’ scam is a common fraud which targets elderly victims. Suspects who prey on these victims are aware that the elderly are often more trusting of people, have utmost love for their grandchildren, and have access to retirement savings, making them vulnerable to these types of crimes. It is recommended that if you or your loved one receives a phone call of this nature, to immediately hang up and contact your local police department for assistance.

Cristopher Enmanuel Mauricio

 

CRIMINAL CHARGES, AND ANY DISCUSSION THEREOF, ARE MERELY ALLEGATIONS AND ALL DEFENDANTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL AND UNLESS PROVEN GUILTY.

 

Approved for release by Lt. Steve Fink