EDMOND, Okla. (KFOR) – An out-of-town pair has been apprehended for their alleged involvement in a “grandparent scam,” aimed at deceiving elderly residents of Oklahoma by falsely claiming their loved ones are in jail and need money for bail.
“When our customers want to withdraw large sums of cash, we ask them a few questions,” said Robert Banks, COO of Kirkpatrick Bank in Edmond. “Once money is handed over or wired out, it’s gone and hard to recover.”
Last week, an elderly Oklahoman attempted to withdraw $15,100 in cash from the bank near 15th and Broadway.
Police reported that the scammers would call seniors, pretending that their grandchild or relative was in jail and urgently needed funds for release.
“They knew the victim’s loved one’s name and used it during the call,” Banks explained. “Victims tend to believe everything.”
According to authorities, 37-year-old Roger Ray and 27-year-old Jabriex Mann posed as messengers for a fictitious attorney. They would arrive at victims’ homes, collect the cash, and leave quickly.
After noticing the large withdrawal, a bank teller alerted Banks, who advised the victim to verify the situation.
“Why don’t you call your daughter or niece to see if they are really in trouble?” Banks suggested. “There was noticeable relief when the victim learned their loved one was safe.”
Following the bank’s notification, Edmond police coordinated a plan to apprehend Ray and Mann at the victim’s residence, where they believed they were about to collect more money.
On body camera footage, Ray was heard asking, “Can I enjoy the fresh air?” to which an officer replied, “I’m going to ask you nicely to get inside the car.”
Both men, originally from Georgia, now face multiple charges, including exploitation of the elderly, obtaining money under false pretenses, and conspiracy.
Banks expressed satisfaction in seeing the scammers caught. “Knowing that our efforts help catch criminals and protect others is very fulfilling,” he stated.
Police are emphasizing that this scenario is not how the jail system operates. If anyone receives a call like this, they should verify the information with family members.
Oklahoma City Police are also looking for the duo, as other elderly individuals may have fallen victim to their scheme.