A Surprise for the Con Artists Behind the Elderly Lady
The swindlers cheered when the door was swung open by a frail, ninetyyearold woman. But just behind her, a massive dog named Gaston appeared
Sophie Marceau was certainly old, yet fully modern. At ninety she kept in touch with her grandchildren over 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 companion that brightened her days was an equally aged dog, Gastona quirky name her late husband had chosen. Every morning and evening, neighbors saw Sophie strolling slowly, a cane in one hand and Gastons leash in the other. The leash was mainly for reassurance; despite his imposing size, Gaston had never bitten anyone, even in his younger days.
Sophie knew that solitary seniors were prime targets for fraudsters. She had first heard about it from her grandchildren, then from the local precinct chief, and later from articles she read online. A few months earlier, a friend had called her in tears, recounting how shed been swindled out of her savings.
So when the doorbell rang, Sophie was wary. Two twentysomething youngstersone boy, one girlstood on her porch, claiming to work for social services.
Did I ask for anyone? Sophie snapped, eyes sharp.
Were the ones who came to you, the boy grinned broadly. Tell me, did you purchase anything at the pharmacy last month?
Well of course. At my age Im at the pharmacy as often as the grocery store! Ninety isnt a joke! Sophie replied, able to list her purchases and their effects for hours.
Clearly, the youngsters werent interested in that.
Youre eligible for a government compensation program, the girl said. Let us in, bring out your receipts, and well verify everything.
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! Sophie replied. And you, young man, will have Gaston for company, she added with a grin.
At that moment Gaston, roused but alert to the strangers, made his entrance. Despite his advanced age, his imposing stature was intimidating.
Sophie and the girl left the room. Gaston slowly approached the boy, fixing him with a steady stare.
Try to snoop and Ill bite your head off, seemed to be his warning. The youngster didnt dare move.
Needless to say, after that reception the duo suddenly remembered an urgent matter and hurried away.
And this medication compensation? Sophie asked, a mischievous smile playing on her lips.
Well get back to you, the girl stammered, already making for the exit.
Sophie watched the impostors leave with a stern glance, shut the door, praised Gaston, and called the police to report the fake social agents.
A Twist for the Con Artists Behind the Elderly Lady
