Alleged grandparent scammers lived in luxury. Their victims lost their savings and peace of mind

CBC News has been investigating grandparent scams and their connection to Montreal, uncovering a network of scammers that have targeted vulnerable seniors, including Madeline, an American nurse who fell victim to their deception.

In 2020, Madeline received a call from someone claiming to be from Montreal, informing her of legal trouble. The caller convinced her to withdraw thousands of dollars from her savings to invest in her son’s business, a lie orchestrated by the scammers. This network, led by David Anthony Di Rienzo, allegedly targeted thousands of seniors, draining their savings while living luxuriously off their ill-gotten gains.

The impact of these scams goes beyond financial loss. Victims like Madeline felt vulnerable and exposed, their trust shattered by the deceitful tactics of the scammers. Despite efforts to stop the fraud, the emotional toll on victims like Madeline was significant. Her daughter, Janelle, recounts how the scam shook her mother, leading to her eventual move into an assisted living facility.

The scammers, following a script of emotional manipulation, preyed on the trust and love of their victims to extract money. One scammer, Giordano De Luca, professed his love to an 86-year-old victim, leveraging her concern for her grandchild to persuade her to send money for bail. The tactics used by these scammers caused great stress and emotional harm to their victims, leaving them feeling ashamed and devastated.

The impact of these scams on victims’ peace of mind and financial security is profound. Jane Magnus-Stinson, a judge overseeing a related case, highlighted the psychological harm inflicted on victims, condemning the scammers for robbing them of their retirement savings and sense of security. The perpetrators, like Darlens Renard, were sentenced to prison for their role in these fraudulent schemes.

For Madeline, the scam was a traumatic experience that ultimately led to her death. Her daughter, Janelle, is determined to seek justice for her mother and other victims by testifying against the alleged scammers in court. Despite the devastating impact of these scams, Janelle remembers her mother as a caring individual who would always help those in need.

As the investigation into grandparent scams in Montreal continues, it is essential to raise awareness about these fraudulent schemes and protect vulnerable seniors from falling prey to such deception. The story of Madeline serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the need for stronger measures to combat these criminal networks and ensure justice for their victims.