United States v. Juan Rafael Parra Arias et. al., Docket Number: 24-cr-6-CCC (District of New Jersey)

In an effort to assist those affected by this offense, this web page has been developed to provide updated court hearing and case information.

Recently, eleven people were charged by Indictment alleging they participated in what is commonly referred to as a “grandparent scam.”

Members of the conspiracy called elderly victims in the United States and impersonated the victims’ children, grandchildren, or other close relatives. Typically, the victim was told that their grandchild had been in a car accident, was arrested as a result of the accident, and needed help.

Once victims had been tricked into believing their loved ones were in trouble, others working at call centers located in the Dominican Republic impersonated defense attorneys, police officers, or court personnel, and convinced victims to provide thousands of dollars in cash to help their loved ones.  These individuals typically told victims to give the cash to couriers whom they sent to victims’ homes to collect the money. Other times, victims were instructed to send the cash by mail, FedEx, or UPS.

Please note that an Indictment is only an accusation.  The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.  Find out more information on the Indictment HERE.

Please continue to check this website for updates and scheduled court appearance dates.

If you believe you were victimized in this scam, wish to attend any future hearing or court proceeding that is scheduled in the case, or have any questions, please contact the Victim Witness staff at CPB.VictimWitness@usdoj.gov, or call 202-307-8674.

Access a copy of the press release.

Scheduled Court Hearing Information:

Hearings will take place in United States District Court, 50 Walnut Street, Newark, NJ 07102 before the judge indicated below:

*Denotes in custody