A couple in San Rafael was tricked out of $11,250 by a scammer who fraudulently requested bail money, police said.
The couple received a call Monday from someone claiming to work for a law office, San Rafael police Lt. Dan Fink said. The caller said their grandson was arrested for driving under the influence and the bail could be lowered if paid in cash.
The couple withdrew cash from a bank and a man came to their home later to collect it. After paying the man, the couple contacted their grandson and learned he was never arrested.
Fink described the collector as a “younger, thin, white male dressed in dark clothing.” He was last seen walking in the area Las Gallinas Avenue and Manuel T. Freitas Parkway.
Tipsters who might have information for detectives can call 415-485-3000.