Full Notification

On 1/7/16 the Macungie Police Department received a call from a resident who was contacted by phone from a male claiming to be a public defender representing her grandson who was in a DUI crash and required medical attention. The male proceeded to say that the resident needed to send $2000 via MONEY GRAM to cover medical expenses and legal fees. During the conversation the resident was permitted to speak with who she was told was her grandson. The resident was told his voice may sound different due to his injuries. The resident did think she was speaking to the grandson who pleaded with her to send funds. The resident did send the requested funds and about an hour later received a call back from the male and provided tracking information to the caller. The resident questioned how the grandson would get home and the male talked her into sending an additional $1600 to cover transportation fees.

After the second MONEY GRAM transfer was made, the resident called her son. Her son advised the grandson was currently in the home and sleeping. At that point she called police and learned the wire transfer had been picked up in New York. Police were unable to stop payment on the wire transfer.

This situation could have been avoided if the resident would have made a phone call directly to her son inquiring about her grandson. This is what the scammers want to happen. They want you to do what they request immediately so you don't have the chance to make other calls.

There are several variations of money scams. Residents should be very cautious when receiving phone calls where money is requested to be wired through Western Union or Money Gram. Always ask questions and if ever in doubt about the validity of the call you can always call the Macungie Police. We will assist in making a determination as to if the call is legitimate or not.

These scam incidents don't seem to be stopping anytime soon. Please pass this message on to your family members or at least discuss it with them .