By Rupert Howell

The Batesville Police Department is warning citizens about a recent scam where a grandparent was made victim by someone impersonating a grandchild on the telephone seeking money to get out of jail on a DUI charge in Canada.

Police Detective Paul Shivers and Chief Tony Jones said enough personal information was obtained through the internet to convince the grandparent that the caller was the grandchild.

The caller asked that the parent not be notified but that $3,800 in cash was needed to get the grandchild out of jail following a wreck and DUI charge.

In the most recent case, $3,800 was wired to Canada and although there was a confirmation call to ensure that the grandparent knew that the money was being withdrawn, it came before the scam was uncovered.

Shivers said it was hard to get federal agencies involved unless a large amount of money is involved such as $500,000.

Jones and Shivers said the scam is becoming common although a case Thursday was the first reported locally.

Shivers said to check with other family members to be sure the person you think you’re sending money to is actually that person.

Others who may have been scammed or think they are being scammed can contact the Batesville Police Department at 563-5653.