Dalton man loses $10k in grandparent scam

An 88-year-old Dalton man lost $10,000 in a scam.

Someone claiming to be a lawyer called the man and said his grandson was in jail, police told NewsChannel 13’s media partners at The Berkshire Eagle.

The scammer asked for $10,000 in “bond” money, and the man gave it to someone who showed up at his door a bit later.

When they asked for another $12,000 later that day, the victim realized it was a scam and called police.

Deborah Andrus, 60, of Pittsfield was arrested when she showed up for the cash. She was charged with attempted larceny from a person over 60, extortion by false reporting of a crime and conspiracy.

Andrus claims someone hired her, and she didn’t know about the scam. She pleaded not guilty and is due back in court on Sept. 18.

The investigation continues.