Join

Stafford Seniors Avoid Phone Scam, So Far

Stafford, Va. The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office reports a phone scam in the area aimed at swindling senior citizens. Since November, four senior citizens have received a call from an individual claiming to be their grandchild. In each separate incident the caller, pretending to be a grandson or granddaughter, told the senior citizen that they were in trouble in a foreign country and needed money to bail them out of jail.

In this scam the senior citizen receives a call where the caller identifies himself/herself as a grandchild in trouble with law enforcement in a foreign country and needs cash sent immediately to be used as bail money. Preying on the senior citizens uncertainty of which grandchild is calling, the caller is able to get the grandchild’s name and then pretend to be that person. Asking the grandparent to not call “Mom and Dad” because they want to tell them the bad news themselves, the caller then convinces the citizen to send the money by money order to an address they provide. This phone scam is being seen in other parts of the country as well.

In each incident in Stafford, the senior citizen receiving the bogus call has refused the request for money and contacted the Sheriff’s Office. This is not the first time that Stafford County citizens have reported this scam. It was first reported in Stafford County in July and September of 2009.

The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office recommends that if citizens receive a call such as this to not send any money until they verify with other family members the authenticity of the call and the caller. Families can also develop a code word that easily identifies a family member should there be any question as to the identity of a family member who is calling. Anyone who receives this type of call may also call the Sheriff’s Office at 540- 658-4450.

-Unedited press release

 

Recent Stories

Virginia Railway Express (VRE) CEO Rich Dalton announced his retirement at the VRE Operations Board meeting on Friday, June 20, 2025.

Extreme heat grips the region again this week, while election campaigns ramp up in Stafford and Manassas celebrates with fireworks, TV features, and a big community fair. Here’s what’s happening across Northern Virginia.

The Manassas City Council is preparing to present a new set of legislative priorities to state lawmakers during its annual Legislative Breakfast, scheduled for July 15, 2025, at the Manassas Museum.

After more than 20 years of dedicated service, Manassas Park officials honored City Attorney Dean Crowhurst during an emotional sendoff at the June 17 Governing Body meeting.

Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.

“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”

As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Alt-rock legends Gin Blossoms are performing a FREE live show TONIGHT, Wednesday, June 11th at The Bullpen – and D.C., you’re invited.

Power to the Patients will be hosting Gin Blossoms for Special Performance at Congressional Baseball Game Pre-Party.

This unforgettable night under the summer sky features the band behind ‘90s classics like “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” and “Follow You Down.” Expect a packed crowd, cold drinks, and killer energy.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Your Weight Matters National Convention

Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.

This unique Convention truly has something

Van Metre 5K Run

Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has

×

Subscribe to our mailing list