April 25, 2025 Newsletter

April 25, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.


Emergency Services News

Warning: OPS and OPP Alert Public to New Scam Targeting Seniors with Fake Gold Investment Schemes

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The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) and Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are warning the public about a new scam where criminals are tricking elderly people into buying and shipping large amounts of gold to avoid financial loss. The OPS has received reports from two elderly victims who were scammed into buying over $500,000 worth of gold each, which the suspects arrange to pick up from the victim at their residence. The OPP in Norfolk County has also reported a similar case, with losses of nearly $350,000. This scam is a new version of the "Grandparent Scam," where criminals previously claimed a loved one was in trouble and needed money for bail. Now, the scam artists are telling victims that the only way to protect their money is to buy gold.

The OPS and OPP are urging everyone, especially older people, to be careful and follow these tips:

  • Do not buy gold or gift cards if you get unexpected pop-up messages, emails, or phone calls.
  • If someone asks you to buy gold or gift cards to protect your money, talk to a trusted family member or friend before doing anything.
  • If you think you’ve been targeted or already lost money, call 211 or your local police right away.

For details, please visit ottawapolice.ca.

 

Beware of distraction thefts targeting jewellery, wallets, phones, purse contents

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The Ottawa Police Service is warning the public about recent distraction thefts across the city. Suspects often approach individuals who are alone in public spaces, particularly in parking lots, and engage in conversation under false pretenses — such as asking for directions or offering a gift. In many cases, they attempt to place a piece of jewellery, such as a necklace, around the person’s neck while distracting them. Victims typically realize only afterward that a valuable item has been stolen. These suspects are known to use charm and deception to get close, and they often target visible jewellery or personal belongings. For tips on how to protect yourself and for more details, please visit ottawapolice.ca.

 

 

Make the Right Call 

www.ottawapolice.ca/en/who-we-are/contact-us.aspx

When to Call 911:

  • For crimes in progress and life-threatening emergencies
  • You witness a dangerous or impaired driver
  • There is a vehicle collision with injuries
  • Fire or medical emergency

When to call 613-236-1222. Please listen to the prompts.

  • Residential or commercial break and enter
  • Missing person
  • Suspicious activity or vehicle (drug trafficking in progress)
  • Stolen vehicle
  • Assault where no medical attention is required
  • Animal abuse
  • Vehicle collision where no injuries are reported

When to call and make a report with the Ottawa Police Reporting Unit 613-236-1222, extension 7300. Open seven days a week between 10 am and 8:45 pm.

  • Alcohol and drug use in public (for example, in city parks)
  • Reporting to the police after the fact – an incident has occurred, but no one has remained on scene
  • Disputes or harassment (for example, argument with neighbour, stalking, fear for non-immediate safety)
  • Sexual assault reported, where there is no longer evidence

When the Ottawa Police Reporting Unit (PRU) is closed between the hours of 9 pm and 10 am, an automated attendant will provide you with options on how to redirect your call.

When to make a report using the Ottawa Police online system at ottawapolice.ca/onlinereporting:

  • Theft (excluding theft of passports or other citizenship documents)
  • Lost Property (with a visible serial number or distinct marking such as a custom engraving)
  • This does not include: cellphones, credit and debit cards; please phone your banking institution or cellphone company
  • Mischief/Damage to Property 
  • Theft from Vehicle
  • Traffic Complaints 
  • Drug Complaints (drug trafficking information)
  • Fraud Complaints
  • Hate-Motivated Incidents
  • Add information to an existing report

Crime Stoppers: If you have information about a crime but want to remain completely anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at crimestoppers.ca.

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Address: 110 Laurier Ave W, Ottawa, ON K1P 1J1