A Surprise for the Con Artists Behind the Elderly Lady
The swindlers were thrilled when the door opened to reveal a frail ninetyyearold woman. Yet, just behind her, a massive dog named Gaston appeared
Sophie Marceau was certainly old, but still very much in touch with the times. At ninety, she kept in contact with her grandchildren via Skype and paid her bills online. Why waste 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 an equally aged dog, Gastonan odd name his late husband had chosenthat brightened her days. Every morning and evening, neighbors 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 youth.
Naturally, Sophie knew that senior citizens living alone were frequent targets for fraudsters. First, her grandchildren warned her. Then the local precinct chief mentioned it. Later, she read articles online. A few months back, a friend called in tears, recounting how she had been swindled out of her savings.
So when the doorbell rang, Sophie became cautious. Two youngsters in their twentiesone male, one femalestood on her porch, claiming to work for social services.
I didnt ask for anyone, Sophie shot back, 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?
Of course, Sophie answered, unabashed. At my age I visit the pharmacy as often as the grocery store! Ninety isnt a joke! She could list her purchases and their purposes for hours.
The youths seemed uninterested in her reply.
Youre eligible for a state compensation scheme! Its a new government measure. Let us in, pull out your receipts, and well verify everything, the young woman offered.
Sophie smiled inwardly. She recognized the trick: strangers enter, one distracts while the other rummages through the house.
Exactly that happened. The pair stepped into the living room, and the woman asked Sophie to accompany her to the kitchen for a glass of water.
Of course, dear! Sophie said. And you, young man, Gaston will keep you company, she added with a smile.
At that moment, Gaston, roused but alert to the intruders, entered. Despite his advanced age, his imposing presence was evident.
Sophie and the woman left the room. Gaston slowly approached the boy, fixing him with an intense stare.
Try to snoop and Ill bite your head off, the dog seemed to warn. The youngster didnt dare move.
Unsurprisingly, after that reception, the pair suddenly remembered an urgent matter and hurried away.
And that medication compensation? Sophie asked, a mischievous grin on her face.
Well get back to you, the woman stammered, scrambling toward the exit.
Sophie watched the departing visitors with a stern eye, shut the door, praised Gaston, and called the police to report the alleged social agents.
A Twist for the Tricksters Behind the Old Lady
