A Surprise for the Crooks Behind the Old Lady

A Surprise for the Con Artists Behind the Elderly Lady
The swindlers were delighted when a frail 90yearold woman opened the door for them. But just behind her, a massive dog named Gaston appeared
Sophie Marceau was indeed old, yet still very much in touch with the times. At ninety she kept up with her grandchildren on Skype and paid her bills online. Why waste my time standing in line at the post office? she would say.
She had lost her husband twelve years earlier. The only companionship she had was a dog of the same age, Gaston an odd name her late husband had chosen that brightened her days. Every morning and evening the neighbourhood watched Sophie shuffle slowly, a cane in one hand and Gastons leash in the other. The leash was mostly a comfort; despite his impressive size, Gaston had never bitten anyone, even in his younger, more vigorous days.
Sophie knew that elderly people living alone were prime targets for fraudsters. First her grandchildren warned her, then the local precinct chief, and later she read articles online. A few months earlier a friend had called, crying, after being swindled out of her savings.
So when the doorbell rang, she grew wary. Two twentysomethings stood on her doorstep a young man and a young woman claiming to work for social services.
I didnt ask for anyone, Sophie said, her eyes sharp.
Were the ones who came to you, the boy replied with a wide grin. Tell me, did you buy anything at the pharmacy last month?
Well of course. At my age I go to the pharmacy as often as the grocery store! Ninety isnt a joke! Sophie answered, ready to list her purchases and their effects for hours.
Clearly, that didnt interest the youths.
Youre eligible for a state compensation! Its a new government initiative. Let us in, pull out your receipts, and well verify everything, the girl suggested.
Sophie smiled inwardly. She recognized the trick: strangers enter, one distracts while the other rummages through the house.
Thats exactly what happened. The pair stepped into the living room, and the girl asked Sophie to accompany her to the kitchen for a glass of water.
Of course, dear! And you, young man, Gaston will keep you company, Sophie replied with a smile.
At that moment Gaston, awakened and alert to strangers, entered the scene. Despite his advanced age, his imposing stature still commanded attention.
Sophie and the girl left the room. Gaston approached the boy slowly, fixing him with an intense stare.
Try to rummage and Ill bite your head off, seemed to say the dog. The young man froze.
Unsurprisingly, after that intimidating greeting the duo remembered an urgent matter and hurried out.
And this medication compensation? Sophie asked, a mischievous grin playing on her lips.
Well get back to you, the girl stammered, rushing toward the door.
Sophie watched the intruders leave with a stern gaze, shut the door, praised Gaston, and called the police to report the socalled social agents.