Wal-Mart surveillance photo of two men believed to be involved in the "grandparents scam.'' TEWKSBURY - Tewksbury police arrested the second suspect in the so-called "Grandparent Scam.''

In Lowell District Court on Tuesday, Brayan Soto-Soriano, 20, of 64 Haverhill St., Apt. 1, Lawrence, had his bail set at $500 cash bail after pleading not guilty to a charge of larceny over $250 from a victim over 60. Soto-Soriano's next court date is April 5.

Police arrested on Friday co-defendant arrested Alan Feliz, 19, of 10 Campo St., 2nd Fl, Lawrence on the same charge after an investigation into a fraudulent money transaction at the Tewksbury Wal-Mart. Detectives were able to track down Feliz after it was confirmed that the $2,275 he allegedly picked up as part of the alleged scam. In this scam, police say a grandparent receives a call claiming a grandchild is in jail and needs money for bail to be wired to a location. In this case, the victim was an 82-year-old Tennessee woman.

"There are many scams like this one that people are falling victim to with many variations. If someone calls you asking for money, call your local Police Department and check with us before you become a victim,'' Sheehan said.

He added, "We have seen some of these scams even threaten the lives of loved ones and say they are being held hostage asking for money, or more recently thousands of dollars in gift cards. "



The Tewksbury Police Department urges any citizens who suspect criminal activity to call the Dispatch Center @ 978-851-7373. If you wish to remain anonymous please call the Tip Line @ 978-851-0175 or send an email to tewks_detectives@tewksbury-ma.gov

