Between February and September 2024, police received four reports of fraud that took place at local bank ATMs. In each incident, an adult male appeared to speak on the phone with his financial institution about issues withdrawing funds at the ATM. He then approaches banking customers at nearby ATMs, explaining that he has reached his withdrawal limit, or his account is frozen, and asking the customer to borrow money for rent or gas. After gaining the sympathy of the customer, he promises to pay the money back, but is never heard from again. To date, the four complainants have lost just under $2,000.
Police have since identified Tracey Reid, 55, as the accused in all four incidents and he has subsequently been charged with fraud (x4) and uttering a forged document. Reid has since been released.
Detectives believe that others may have been defrauded by Reid and are releasing his photo to encourage them to contact police. Likewise, officers believe Reid is at high-risk to re-offend against others and are advising anyone who is approached by him not to provide him any funds.
Duty to warn: Tracey Reid, 55
“Reid is known to police and has attended various financial institutions throughout Edmonton and neighbouring communities while committing this fraud,” says Det. Carrie Bosse with the EPS. “We believe he has taken advantage of many other good Samaritans, and we encourage them to contact us at their earliest convenience.”
Anyone who has been defrauded by Reid is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone.