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A woman is facing charges after a fraud investigation involving an elderly victim.
On April 16, the representative of an 89-year-old woman contacted police after noticing irregular financial activities on her bank account and credit card. The investigation revealed that the victim had been defrauded of several thousands of dollars by a suspect who wrote fraudulent cheques out of her bank account and used her credit card to make online purchases.
On June 5, around noon, investigators arrested 32-year-old Minus Shaline Downey of North Preston without incident. She was held in custody over the weekend and will appear in Dartmouth Provincial Court today to face three counts each of theft under $5,000, possession of stolen property under $5,000, uttering forged documents, forgery and one count of fraud over $5,000. This investigation is ongoing and additional charges are anticipated.
This was not a random incident. The accused was working for a homecare company and was assisting the victim daily. Financial situations, health needs or the reliance on others can make seniors vulnerable to fraud. Police recommend that you thoroughly check the references of anyone offering their help before entrusting them with your money or personal care.
Investigators believe there may be more victims who have been defrauded in a similar manner. If you believe you have been the victim of a fraud, please call the Financial Crime Unit at 902-490-1985. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling toll-free 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca or texting a tip - Tip 202 + your message to 27463.