By: Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Chatham-Kent Police have tackled a range of incidents, from probation violations to impaired driving, besides warning its residents of fraudulent calls.
Police warn public about fraudulent calls
The Chatham-Kent Police urged residents to stay vigilant against phone scams that fraudulently target victims, particularly seniors, by posing as distressed family members or officials. Authorities advise anyone receiving a suspicious call to hang up immediately and contact a family member, neighbour, or the police to verify the situation.
These fraudsters often claim to be troubled grandchildren, police officers, or lawyers presenting fabricated emergencies that require immediate financial assistance. Typical scenarios include claims of a collision involving a pregnant woman, an arrest for impaired driving, or a car breakdown in another province. The scammers may also allege that the victim’s grandchild has been detained and needs bail money to be released.
In some cases, fraudsters exploit the pandemic by claiming the grandchild’s voice sounds different due to COVID-19. They further manipulate victims by inventing reasons why the grandchild cannot speak directly, such as being in jail or a medical facility. To maintain secrecy, the scammers invoke a supposed “gag order,” warning victims not to discuss the situation with others.
To make the scam appear more credible, fraudsters provide a password for a courier who will collect the money or give incident numbers to write on the envelope. They often use terms like “bail bondsman” or “bailiff,” which are familiar from TV dramas but are not part of the Canadian justice system.
Failing to comply with probation order
A 27-year-old Blenheim woman was arrested on Regent Street for breaching her probation, which prohibited her presence at the location. She was held for a bail hearing.
Youth charged with uttering threats
A 17-year-old Chatham youth turned himself in after an investigation into threats made on Dover Street. He faces charges of uttering threats to cause death, bodily harm, and property damage. He was released with a future court date.
Grandparent scam arrest
A 23-year-old Windsor man was arrested in connection with a 2023 fraud where an older woman was scammed out of $20,000. He was released on December 9, 2024, with a court date. Police urge residents to report scams and verify suspicious calls claiming emergencies.
Failing to comply with release order
A 17-year-old male was arrested at the Chatham Courthouse for causing a disturbance. He was also charged with breaching his house arrest conditions and held for a bail hearing.
Stolen property arrest
A 24-year-old man was arrested after police found him in possession of a stolen boat along the Sydenham River. Wanted on outstanding warrants, he was held for a bail hearing.
Assault with a weapon and uttering threats
A 20-year-old woman was arrested for throwing a coffee mug at another woman during an argument outside an apartment complex. She faces charges of assault with a weapon and uttering threats and was released on an undertaking.
Unlawful presence in dwelling
Police arrested a 43-year-old man for unlawfully entering a residence. During the arrest, he assaulted an officer, leading to additional charges. He was held for a bail hearing.
Public intoxication
A 21-year-old Wallaceburg man was arrested and held until sober after being found intoxicated and unable to care for himself.
Impaired driving incidents
A 21-year-old man was arrested for impaired driving after police discovered his vehicle involved in a collision on Indian Creek Road. In another incident, a 37-year-old woman was arrested for impaired operation after being found passed out in her vehicle near Grande River Line. Concerned citizens had secured her keys until police arrived.
Stolen vehicle investigation
A vehicle was reported stolen from a parking lot on St. Clair Street in Chatham. The investigation is ongoing.
Watch for wildlife
Drivers are reminded to watch for wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk. Precautions include scanning roadsides, using high beams when safe, and avoiding sudden swerves to prevent collisions.
Bicycle registry program
Chatham-Kent Police encourage residents to register their bicycles to increase the chances of recovering stolen bikes.
