ScamBusters: Disturbing scam targeting elderly women in Pueblo
A disturbing scam targeting elderly women is growing in the south Pueblo area.
Pueblo police are searching for two women in their 30s who are reportedly using convincing language to get elderly victims to agree to virtually anything.
How the scam works
Imagine a woman shows up at your doorstep offering a deal for “Home Health Care” stating it’s required if you’re over 80 years old. Sounds crazy right? Well, two women in south Pueblo are using this line to convince elderly victims they need this service.
Following the convincing talk, the women walk into their home to do the “inspection” and steal expensive belongings. In some cases, they’ll even get their personal financial information.
Meet Irene
Irene Kelso is a gifted seamstress. She was sewing items for her Christmas collection when some unexpected company arrived.
“The lady came to the door and said she’s got to examine me,” Kelso said.
After the 87-year-old persistently refused the offer, it got worse.
“She ran into my kitchen, and started asking do you clean your house?” she said.
Minutes later, the stranger demands her driver’s license and personal information. Kelso was too frightened to say no.
“She was moving so quick, I couldn’t walk that fast,” she said.
Within a half hour, the woman rummaged through every room of her house, stealing expensive belongings.
Sgt. Franklyn Ortega explains their team is certain there are other victims tied up in this scheme.
“It’s very frustrating because we know they’re very vulnerable victims and sometime they might not even know they’re a victim yet,” said Ortega.
Tips and tricks
The crime is two-fold. Personal belongings being stolen and also financial information.
Luckily, Kelso’s bank account wasn’t drained. But it’s always important to be skeptical of anyone who comes to your doorstep. Especially, because Home Health Care representatives would never stop by unannounced. It’s usually a referral by your doctor.
Police confirm there is another woman doing the same thing. It’s unclear if the two are working together or as a part of a bigger group.
If this has happened to you or a loved one, report it to Pueblo Police here.
Report a scam
Email me at Stephanie.Sierra@KRDO.com.
