US$1.5 million was attempted to be taken from about 1,700 seniors. Yet, at least US$316,000 managed to slip through before police intervened. This is at the core of a case now before the Palais de justice de Montréal.
A Montreal-area network moved with the polish of a sales floor and the discipline of a crew. David Anthony Di Rienzo, often called david dirienzo or dirienzo, is at the centre. Prosecutors describe him as a hands-on boss who set scripts, demanded recordings, and liaised with U.S. pickup teams.
This probe brings the story out of rumor and into Montreal breaking news. It links call-room tactics to cash-fuelled optics that brushed against the city’s property scene.
The charge sheet frames it as fraud Montreal, but the ripple is broader. Court documents say Di Rienzo pleaded guilty to conspiracy, fraud, and gangsterism. Restitution was ordered, and more sentencing arguments are due in January.
For readers tracking Montreal real estate fraud alongside cross-border enforcement, the contours are now in plain view. The paper trail is growing.
Montreal breaking news context and why this real estate-adjacent fraud matters
Montreal breaking news has seen a rise in grandparent scams. These scams are linked to cross-border rings. Di Rienzo’s cases are among those being investigated for fraud in Montreal.
These scams often involve rental upgrades and cash purchases. This has caught the public’s attention, even though property isn’t directly involved. The Palais de justice de Montréal is where court activity is closely watched.
Police have found operational bases in the Montreal–Laval area. Arrests here can affect people in both Canada and the U.S. Families are waiting for news in both countries.
The scheme involves finance, phones, couriers, and more. It has become a concern for the whole city.
How grandparent scams intersect with Montreal’s broader financial and real estate scene
These scams move money quickly through banks and cash handlers. They then show up as signs of success, like in real estate. This is why fraud in Montreal’s real estate is a big deal, even if property isn’t directly involved.
Investigations have found patterns that involve lenders, landlords, and jewellery dealers. This makes them part of the risk map. When suspicion falls, it often hits visible targets like upscale rentals and high-end services paid in cash.
This is why stories about fraud in Montreal often feel like business news. It’s not just about crime.
Why this case resonates across Canada and the U.S.
Many victims were American seniors. This has led to cooperation between Canadian and U.S. authorities. Cases are being compared at the Palais de justice de Montréal.
Families in Toronto, Boston, and Miami are following the story. The alleged schemes don’t stop at the border. This is why law enforcement is working together.
The playbook of the scam is well-known. It involves Quebec direction, victims in several U.S. states, and money sent back north. Di Rienzo has become a symbol of the problem and the need to stop it.
Key dates: arrests in 2021, formal charges in 2023, sentencing phase in January
- 2021: Initial arrests tied to coordinated raids in the Montreal–Laval area, flagged within fraud Montreal updates.
- 2023: Formal charges filed under the Sûreté du Québec’s Projet/Partenariat, with multiple appearances at palais justice Montreal.
- January (sentencing phase): Arguments scheduled to address plea files and possible victim statements at the Montreal courthouse.
These milestones are part of a bigger effort to share evidence between courts. They explain why Montreal breaking news keeps coming back to Di Rienzo. They also show how real estate fraud themes emerge when cash and optics meet courtroom records.
Who is David Anthony Di Rienzo and his alleged network in Montreal
David Anthony Di Rienzo is a grandparent scam leader in Laval and Montreal. He’s 32 and has been moving between fancy apartments and temporary flats. Montreal media reports show how his network worked and how it affected his daily life.
Background: Laval ties, leadership role, use of aliases like Bud or Buddy
Di Rienzo started in Laval but reached Montreal through apartments. He used names like Bud or Buddy, and his team followed suit. Police found connections between David Anthony and his alias, dirienzo, in court documents.
The team: callers, closers, chauffeurs, and U.S.-based money “recuperation” crews
The team worked like a call center. They had openers, closers, a chauffeur, and a pay distributor. A U.S. crew handled packages and confirmed money transfers. Roles changed to adapt to new targets.
Visible wealth signals: luxury cars, high-end dining, upscale apartments
Police noticed luxury cars, fancy dining, and short-term leases in Montreal and Laval. They found Mercedes and a Rolls-Royce Phantom used on important days. Receipts showed visits to top restaurants, showing Di Rienzo’s lavish lifestyle.
How the grandparent fraud worked and targeted elderly Americans
The scam used phone calls to trick U.S. seniors. It used detailed data and emotional tactics. The calls sounded like they were from Montreal, making them seem urgent and local.
Each call aimed to create panic and limit options. This made the victims more likely to act quickly.
Scripts and roles: opener and closer pattern to build urgency and trust
“Hi grandma” or “Hi grandpa” were common greetings. Then, a flurry of urgent news about a crash or legal issue followed. This was done to create fear and prompt action.
Once trust was built, a second person would call. They claimed to be a lawyer or police officer. They would then give detailed instructions on how to pay.
The script was designed to be convincing. It included names, cities, and case numbers to sound official. This made the scam seem real, even to those already worried.
Victim lists: personal data, ages 70–95, initial ask often around US$9,000
The scammers had detailed lists of victims. These included names, addresses, birthdays, and income levels. Most victims were between 70 and 95 years old.
The first request was usually around US$9,000. It was presented as a bail or fee that needed to be paid immediately.
Some victims were called multiple times after paying. This showed that the scammers kept using the same lists. Investigators found packages linked to these repeated calls, showing the scammers’ persistence.
Coaching victims to lie to banks and maintain secrecy
The scammers taught victims how to lie to banks. They were told to say the money was for home repairs or a gift. They were also told not to mention police or lawyers.
They were instructed on how to package and send the money. The calls were made throughout the day, leaving little time to verify the information. This was a key part of the scam, linked to david dirienzo and his associates.
Di Rienzo’s leadership playbook and micromanagement tactics
Prosecutors said Di Rienzo ran his team with a tight grip. He focused on control, constant checks, and timed operations. This was to keep risks low and keep the flow of victims steady.
Mandatory call recordings for “quality assurance” and blame assessment
Call recordings were key to Di Rienzo’s control. Every pitch was recorded for review. This helped him check tone, script, and pauses.
When a call didn’t work out or police got involved, these recordings were used. They helped find who made the mistake and who got blamed.
When there were disagreements with U.S. collectors, Di Rienzo would ask for the call recordings. These tapes were used to keep everyone in line.
Approving every recruit and controlling work schedules tied to U.S. bank holidays
Di Rienzo personally checked each new team member. He matched their skills to the job. Schedules were set to match U.S. bank holidays, making it easier to find quiet times.
He made sure shifts were planned around weekends. This kept things smooth and avoided too much scrutiny.
Conflict management with U.S. pickup teams and proof-of-opening videos
Any problems with U.S. teams were solved by checking scripts and logs. He also asked for proof-of-opening videos. This was to make sure what was sent matched what was received.
Later, investigators found a video linked to an 85-year-old victim. They also found a court order for US$18,500 to be returned. This strict oversight included fines, like a $10,000 penalty after a U.S. arrest.
| Control Mechanism | Operational Purpose | Trigger for Review | Documented Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Call recordings | Quality checks and blame assessment within the Montreal fraud network | Arrest, failed handoff, or victim complaint | Discipline decisions and script revisions |
| Recruit approval | Gatekeeping roles and tightening team trust | Onboarding or role change | Centralized hiring under Di Rienzo micromanagement |
| Schedules tied to U.S. bank holidays | Lower detection risk and smoother pickups | Long weekends, branch closures | Time-boxed calls and travel windows |
| Proof-of-opening videos | Deterring skimming by recuperation teams | Cash or jewellery received in the U.S. | Verified contents; US$18,500 ordered returned |
| Fines and penalties | Enforcing compliance after errors | U.S. pickup leading to arrest | $10,000 penalty recorded by Sûreté du Québec |
Financial flows, money laundering and jeweller links in New York and Montreal
Investigators found cash flows linked to Di Rienzo. These flows matched luxury spending in Canada and the U.S. They also matched montreal real estate fraud optics, but showed liquid funds, not mortgages.
Routing proceeds through jewellers to repatriate funds to Canada
Crown filings show a system using jewellers in New York and Montreal. Di Rienzo helped move value and repatriate funds. He managed drop points, confirmations, and settlement amounts to avoid bank trails.
This method used bullion trades, invoice matching, and same-day offsets. It kept the process fast, a key in money laundering schemes.
Connections to recovery teams and package openings to deter skimming
U.S. recovery teams picked up packages and shipped them as instructed. Di Rienzo required recorded package openings to prevent skimming. This ensured the chain of custody was documented.
This system connected couriers, counting rooms, and jewellers in New York or Montreal. It ensured predictable timing for repatriating funds that matched Canadian spending patterns.
Real estate optics versus cash-based luxury spending
Di Rienzo’s public image focused on montreal real estate fraud optics. But his spending habits showed a different story. He used cash for leases, high-end dining, and luxury cars.
Unlike long-term property financing, his use of jewellers Montreal and fast settlements kept money moving. This balance of visible wealth and cash flow was key to Di Rienzo’s operations.
Court filings at the Palais de justice de Montréal and related proceedings
At the Palais de justice de Montréal, filings in the fraud Montreal dossier show a tight case record and a brisk calendar. Prosecutor Erik Cookson-Montin filed summaries that map conduct to counts and trace how cash moved. Court clerks noted multiple exhibits tied to calls, pickups, and banking steps.
References to palais justice Montreal appear throughout the dockets. This highlights a busy roll of hearings linked to the Sûreté du Québec probe known as Projet Partenariat.
Guilty Pleas to Conspiracy, Fraud and Gangsterism; Restitution Orders
Six Montrealers—David Anthony Di Rienzo, Tenaj Johnson, Carson Vaudry, Mason Pereira-Walker, Paul Létourneau, and Steven Petruzziello—entered guilty pleas to conspiracy and fraud. Di Rienzo also admitted a gangsterism charge among four counts. The court accepted agreed statements of facts and proceeded to detailed restitution calculations for victims affected by fraud Montreal.
Orders now total about $190,195 across seven men. Di Rienzo’s share is $88,877 to eight victims, alongside a specific direction to return US$18,500 to an 85-year-old complainant tied to a package-opening video. These figures reflect both Canadian and U.S. losses catalogued in the record.
Key Figures: Prosecutors Erik Cookson-Montin and SQ Projet/Partenariat
Erik Cookson-Montin submitted a 16-page summary describing leadership roles, call scripts, and controls. This was anchored to evidence from the Sûreté du Québec’s Projet Partenariat. Investigators linked phone logs, courier data, and banking alerts to support how the network operated across borders.
The palais justice Montreal file notes continuous coordination between the Crown and SQ teams. Court materials emphasize corroboration: recordings, chat messages, and receipts. Each item helps quantify harm for restitution and align plea facts to statutory thresholds in fraud Montreal prosecutions.
Sentencing Timelines and Community Sentences, Including Steven Petruzziello
Sentencing arguments for most accused are slated for January, with victim statements on the agenda. The schedule sets room for submissions on aggravating factors and ability to pay restitution, consistent with prior rulings at the Palais de justice de Montréal.
Steven Petruzziello received a community sentence: two years to be served in the community. This includes one year of house arrest, followed by probation and community service. This outcome appears in the same docket stream as the other January matters tied to Projet Partenariat and fraud Montreal.
| Accused | Key Pleas | Restitution Noted | Proceedings Venue | Scheduling Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| David Anthony Di Rienzo | Conspiracy, fraud, gangsterism among four charges | $88,877 to eight victims; US$18,500 specific order | Palais de justice de Montréal | Sentencing arguments slated for January |
| Tenaj Johnson | Conspiracy and fraud | Included in approx. $190,195 total | Palais de justice de Montréal | Sentencing arguments slated for January |
| Carson Vaudry | Conspiracy and fraud | Included in approx. $190,195 total | Palais de justice de Montréal | Sentencing arguments slated for January |
| Mason Pereira-Walker | Conspiracy and fraud | Included in approx. $190,195 total | Palais de justice de Montréal | Sentencing arguments slated for January |
| Paul Létourneau | Conspiracy and fraud | Included in approx. $190,195 total | Palais de justice de Montréal | Sentencing arguments slated for January |
| Steven Petruzziello | Conspiracy and fraud | Included in approx. $190,195 total | Palais de justice de Montréal | Community sentence imposed; house arrest, probation, service |
| Crown and Investigators | Erik Cookson-Montin; Sûreté du Québec | Supports victim restitution assessments | palais justice Montreal | Ongoing coordination under Projet Partenariat |
Di Rienzo
Court documents say David Anthony Di Rienzo was the key person in charge. He made sure everyone in Montreal and Laval followed a strict plan. He approved all new members, set work hours based on U.S. holidays, and listened to recordings of calls to victims.
At the palais de justice de Montréal, he was linked to strict rules. These included fines for group members and secret language to avoid being caught.
Prosecutors explained how Di Rienzo managed cash pickups in the U.S. and checked on package openings. He was involved in moving money through jewellers in New York and Montreal. This money then came back around.
He showed off his wealth with many cars and fine dining. But he kept where the money came from a secret.
Di Rienzo admitted guilt and agreed to pay back money from the scheme. He also carried a gun and watched over any fights within the group. His name is everywhere in the court documents, showing his important role in the network.
Fraud cells, boiler rooms and coded language across Laval and Montreal
Montreal fraud cells work like a well-oiled machine. A boiler room Laval is at the heart, tracking calls and money. Di rienzo pushes for more, but stays away from the phones.
At least three fraud cells with a busy boiler room managed by Joshua Sarroino
Prosecutors say there are at least three fraud teams. Each has its own script and target area. The Laval apartment, run by Joshua Sarroino, is a key hub. It handles a lot of calls and keeps detailed records.
During a certain period, these teams made hundreds of thousands of requests. This is according to the Montreal Gazette report.
Coded terms like “my kids” and operational discipline, including fines
Staff used secret language in calls. Di rienzo called them “my kids.” This code was used across Laval and Montreal.
Discipline was strict. Missing targets or being late meant fines or lost pay. Supervisors checked videos from U.S. partners to prevent theft.
Example penalty: $10,000 fine to Paul Létourneau after a U.S. arrest
Paul Létourneau faced a $10,000 fine after an arrest in the U.S. This was a lesson to everyone. It showed how di rienzo enforced rules.
Despite the risks, the boiler room kept up its pace. Managers like Joshua Sarroino kept the operation running smoothly. The fraud cells in Montreal adjusted their tactics to stay ahead.
Victim impact and cross-border enforcement outcomes
U.S. seniors fraud has affected many, with numbers and stories telling the tale. Teams from Canada and the U.S. worked together closely. This shows why cross-border enforcement is key to fighting fraud.
US$316,000 bilked; US$1.5 million sought from 1,700 targets
Dirienzo’s network tried to scam about US$1.5 million from 1,700 people. They got around US$316,000. But, they also lost a lot of money, showing the constant threat to retirees.
CBC spoke with Madeline, a retired nurse, and her daughter Janelle. They talked about how fast action saved them from losing money. But, the fear stayed with them.
Psychological harm and financial loss detailed by U.S. court remarks
U.S. courts have spoken about the real losses. Seniors lost more than money. They lost peace of mind and trust in banks and family.
Even when money was saved, families were left shaken. They were always on guard, checking caller IDs and avoiding going out. This shows the lasting impact of fraud.
Related U.S. conviction: Darlens Renard sentenced to 6.5 years
Darlens Renard got six and a half years in prison in a U.S. case. This shows how U.S. and Canadian efforts are connected. It highlights the need for cooperation.
The case involved many people and places. But, it’s the victims who matter most. As fraud evolves, working together is essential to protect people and track down fraudsters.
Montreal as a hub for grandparent scams and organized crime links
Recent filings show Montreal as a key spot for scams. Phone crews and couriers work fast here. The city’s fraud money also goes into nightlife and real estate.
Patterns tying schemes to mafia and biker groups, according to documents
Records link Montreal scams to the Italian mafia and biker gangs. They share logistics and contacts. Scammers quickly change their plans and keep their operations small.
Money movers prefer small packages and quick handoffs. They aim to keep their activities hidden. This pattern is seen in Laval and Montreal, making Montreal a major scam hub.
Parallel cases: $30M U.S. indictment and extradition fights
A U.S. case involves a $30M indictment against Quebec suspects. They face extradition challenges in Canada. Lawyers argue over where the case should be tried and the evidence.
This case shows how extradition can slow down justice. It affects what victims might get back and what investigators can prove.
The Gareth West real estate narrative and cash-intensive optics
Prosecutors say Gareth West used a developer image to gain trust. He moved money through cash routes. His high-end real estate deals looked successful but hid the truth.
Real estate can be used to look good. It creates a story that matches private cash movements. This story is shared on social media and in real estate pitches.
| Indicator | Observed Pattern | Relevance to Montreal scam hub | Criminal Linkage Noted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Call-centre rotation | Frequent venue shifts and short leases | Limits detection of grandparent crews | Aligned with organized crime logistics |
| Cash conversion | Jewellery, couriers, and rapid resale | Masks source of funds | Methods seen near Italian mafia and biker gangs |
| Real estate optics | Luxury units, quick flips, concierge buildings | Reinforces Montreal real estate fraud cover | Referenced in cases naming Gareth West |
| Cross-border filings | U.S. charges and appeals in Canada | Slows asset recovery and trials | Includes a $30M indictment |
| Network overlap | Shared drivers and vetted fixers | Ensures steady victim targeting | Echoes multi-cell models in organized crime |
Names, spellings and search interest around the Di Rienzo surname
When researching court files and media reports, you often find different spellings. The surname is seen as di rienzo and dirienzo, while official records use David Anthony in various ways. Using all these forms helps track updates across different places and keeps the context clear.
Variations: spelling forms and their visibility in public records
Public records, press releases, and TV segments list names in different ways. Searching with di rienzo, dirienzo, and David Anthony combinations helps find information in both English and French. This method ensures you don’t miss important mentions in court calendars and news archives.
Family-name queries tied to background and migration
People also search for the di rienzo family through genealogy, history, and origin. These terms appear in library catalogs, archives, and city directories. Combining case updates with this background helps understand when different relatives or branches share the same name.
Courthouse terminology and local search cues
Location terms are key for many searches, like those in Montreal. Queries often include Palais justice Montreal and the Palais de justice de Laval. Adding these names can help find specific hearing lists, filing notices, and scheduling notes tied to certain locations.
Conclusion
The Di Rienzo case highlights how fraud can affect seniors across borders. It used recorded calls, strict hiring, and U.S. crew coordination. Cash moved through New York and Montreal jewellers.
The crew made about US$316,000. Yet, their flashy lifestyle contrasted with victims’ losses and stress.
Arrests in 2021 and charges in 2023 are leading to sentencing in January. The court might order restitution and community service. This case is part of a larger fraud scene in Montreal.
It shows how grandparent scams link to cash and real estate. This story is part of a bigger Canadian concern. It involves organized crime and real estate fraud.
As the Di Rienzo case unfolds, it will guide banks, families, and law enforcement. It’s a warning for everyone to stay vigilant.
FAQ
What is David Dirienzo’s role in Montreal’s real estate fraud narrative?
How do grandparent scams intersect with Montreal’s broader financial and real estate scene?
Why does this case resonate across Canada and the U.S.?
What are the key dates in the investigation and court process?
Who is David Anthony Di Rienzo and what ties him to Laval?
Who made up the network supporting the scheme?
What visible wealth signals drew attention?
How did the grandparent scam work?
Who was targeted and what sums were requested?
How were victims coached to keep the scam secret?
What micromanagement tactics did Di Rienzo use?
How did scheduling tie into American banking hours?
How were disputes with U.S. pickup teams handled?
How did money flow from victims to Canada?
Why require package-opening videos?
Were real estate purchases central or symbolic?
What did the Montreal courthouse proceedings establish?
Who led the prosecution and investigation?
What sentences have been imposed so far?
What is known about Di Rienzo’s status?
How extensive were the fraud cells and who managed them?
What coded language and discipline did the group use?
Can you give an example of an internal penalty?
How much money did the network seek versus obtain?
FAQ
What is David Dirienzo’s role in Montreal’s real estate fraud narrative?
David Anthony Di Rienzo was a key figure in Montreal’s grandparent scams. He wasn’t a licensed developer but showed wealth to look credible. This made the case a big topic in Montreal.
How do grandparent scams intersect with Montreal’s broader financial and real estate scene?
Some fraud leaders in Montreal used luxury items to look successful. They spent a lot of cash on things like fancy cars and dining out. This linked their case to wider fraud and laundering risks.
Why does this case resonate across Canada and the U.S.?
The victims were mostly American seniors. But the organizers were in Montreal and Laval. This made it a big issue for both countries.
What are the key dates in the investigation and court process?
Arrests happened in 2021. Charges were filed in 2023. Now, sentencing arguments are set for January.
Who is David Anthony Di Rienzo and what ties him to Laval?
Di Rienzo, 32, lived in Laval. He used aliases like Bud or Buddy. He controlled the scam, managing who called and when.
Who made up the network supporting the scheme?
The network had callers, a chauffeur, and U.S. teams. Joshua Sarroino managed the Laval boiler room.
What visible wealth signals drew attention?
Di Rienzo was linked to luxury cars and high-end living. This drew attention to real estate fraud in Montreal.
How did the grandparent scam work?
Calls started with “Hi grandma” or “Hi grandpa.” An opener posed as a distressed grandchild. Then, a closer acted as a police officer or lawyer.
Who was targeted and what sums were requested?
Victims were mostly American seniors. The scam asked for about US,000 at first. Sometimes, they were asked for more after sending a package.
How were victims coached to keep the scam secret?
Victims were told to keep it quiet. They were even asked to lie to bank staff about withdrawals.
What micromanagement tactics did Di Rienzo use?
He made everyone record calls. He also carried a firearm. He approved new recruits and planned around U.S. holidays.
How did scheduling tie into American banking hours?
Schedules were set to match U.S. bank hours. This helped move money quickly before anyone noticed.
How were disputes with U.S. pickup teams handled?
He demanded proof-of-opening videos. If there were problems, he reviewed calls to figure out who was at fault.
How did money flow from victims to Canada?
Money was laundered through jewellers in New York and Montreal. Di Rienzo coordinated with U.S. teams.
Why require package-opening videos?
Videos helped verify amounts and prevent theft. A video was tied to an 85-year-old victim. The court ordered US,500 in restitution.
Were real estate purchases central or symbolic?
The group showed off wealth with luxury items. But, they mostly spent cash. This was similar to other Montreal cases.
What did the Montreal courthouse proceedings establish?
Six people, including Di Rienzo, pleaded guilty. Di Rienzo also pleaded to gangsterism. The court ordered restitution, including ,877 owed by Di Rienzo.
Who led the prosecution and investigation?
Prosecutor Erik Cookson-Montin led the case. The Sûreté du Québec provided the investigation, including wiretaps and surveillance.
What sentences have been imposed so far?
Sentencing arguments are set for January. Steven Petruzziello got a community-based sentence. He’ll do two years of house arrest and community service.
What is known about Di Rienzo’s status?
Di Rienzo pleaded guilty to several counts. He faces significant restitution. He was the leader of the scam in Montreal and Laval.
How extensive were the fraud cells and who managed them?
At least three cells operated. Joshua Sarroino managed the Laval boiler room. He also pleaded no-contest in a Brossard homicide case.
What coded language and discipline did the group use?
They called him Bud or Buddy. They used internal fines to discipline members. This was like a corporate call centre.
Can you give an example of an internal penalty?
A ,000 fine was imposed on Paul Létourneau. This was after an American was arrested during a cash pickup.
How much money did the network seek versus obtain?
They sought about US
FAQ
What is David Dirienzo’s role in Montreal’s real estate fraud narrative?
David Anthony Di Rienzo was a key figure in Montreal’s grandparent scams. He wasn’t a licensed developer but showed wealth to look credible. This made the case a big topic in Montreal.
How do grandparent scams intersect with Montreal’s broader financial and real estate scene?
Some fraud leaders in Montreal used luxury items to look successful. They spent a lot of cash on things like fancy cars and dining out. This linked their case to wider fraud and laundering risks.
Why does this case resonate across Canada and the U.S.?
The victims were mostly American seniors. But the organizers were in Montreal and Laval. This made it a big issue for both countries.
What are the key dates in the investigation and court process?
Arrests happened in 2021. Charges were filed in 2023. Now, sentencing arguments are set for January.
Who is David Anthony Di Rienzo and what ties him to Laval?
Di Rienzo, 32, lived in Laval. He used aliases like Bud or Buddy. He controlled the scam, managing who called and when.
Who made up the network supporting the scheme?
The network had callers, a chauffeur, and U.S. teams. Joshua Sarroino managed the Laval boiler room.
What visible wealth signals drew attention?
Di Rienzo was linked to luxury cars and high-end living. This drew attention to real estate fraud in Montreal.
How did the grandparent scam work?
Calls started with “Hi grandma” or “Hi grandpa.” An opener posed as a distressed grandchild. Then, a closer acted as a police officer or lawyer.
Who was targeted and what sums were requested?
Victims were mostly American seniors. The scam asked for about US$9,000 at first. Sometimes, they were asked for more after sending a package.
How were victims coached to keep the scam secret?
Victims were told to keep it quiet. They were even asked to lie to bank staff about withdrawals.
What micromanagement tactics did Di Rienzo use?
He made everyone record calls. He also carried a firearm. He approved new recruits and planned around U.S. holidays.
How did scheduling tie into American banking hours?
Schedules were set to match U.S. bank hours. This helped move money quickly before anyone noticed.
How were disputes with U.S. pickup teams handled?
He demanded proof-of-opening videos. If there were problems, he reviewed calls to figure out who was at fault.
How did money flow from victims to Canada?
Money was laundered through jewellers in New York and Montreal. Di Rienzo coordinated with U.S. teams.
Why require package-opening videos?
Videos helped verify amounts and prevent theft. A video was tied to an 85-year-old victim. The court ordered US$18,500 in restitution.
Were real estate purchases central or symbolic?
The group showed off wealth with luxury items. But, they mostly spent cash. This was similar to other Montreal cases.
What did the Montreal courthouse proceedings establish?
Six people, including Di Rienzo, pleaded guilty. Di Rienzo also pleaded to gangsterism. The court ordered restitution, including $88,877 owed by Di Rienzo.
Who led the prosecution and investigation?
Prosecutor Erik Cookson-Montin led the case. The Sûreté du Québec provided the investigation, including wiretaps and surveillance.
What sentences have been imposed so far?
Sentencing arguments are set for January. Steven Petruzziello got a community-based sentence. He’ll do two years of house arrest and community service.
What is known about Di Rienzo’s status?
Di Rienzo pleaded guilty to several counts. He faces significant restitution. He was the leader of the scam in Montreal and Laval.
How extensive were the fraud cells and who managed them?
At least three cells operated. Joshua Sarroino managed the Laval boiler room. He also pleaded no-contest in a Brossard homicide case.
What coded language and discipline did the group use?
They called him Bud or Buddy. They used internal fines to discipline members. This was like a corporate call centre.
Can you give an example of an internal penalty?
A $10,000 fine was imposed on Paul Létourneau. This was after an American was arrested during a cash pickup.
How much money did the network seek versus obtain?
They sought about US$1.5 million from 1,700 targets. They got about US$316,000, with a lot of money intercepted.
What harms did U.S. courts highlight?
Judges talked about the psychological damage. This included loss of peace of mind and retirement security. These harms last even when money is recovered.
Which related U.S. conviction is referenced?
Darlens Renard, a U.S. collector, got a six-and-a-half-year sentence. This shows the scam’s cross-border reach.
Is Montreal considered a hub for grandparent scams?
Yes, Montreal is a key place for these scams. Some networks are linked to organized crime.
What parallel cases show the scope of the problem?
U.S. authorities charged 25 Quebecers in another case. They’re accused of about $30 million in fraud. These cases are happening alongside Di Rienzo’s.
How does Gareth West fit into the broader narrative?
Gareth West is accused of using a real estate developer image for fraud. This mirrors the Di Rienzo case.
Why do name spellings and variants matter?
Different spellings help track the case. They show up in filings and news updates.
What family-name queries are common?
People search for di rienzo family and genealogy. They want to understand the background and connections in media and court reports.
Which local legal terms are useful for following the case?
Terms like Palais justice Montreal are useful. They help track arrests and filings. References to francis jewellers and Catherine Cookson books sometimes appear in broader research.
.5 million from 1,700 targets. They got about US6,000, with a lot of money intercepted.
What harms did U.S. courts highlight?
Judges talked about the psychological damage. This included loss of peace of mind and retirement security. These harms last even when money is recovered.
Which related U.S. conviction is referenced?
Darlens Renard, a U.S. collector, got a six-and-a-half-year sentence. This shows the scam’s cross-border reach.
Is Montreal considered a hub for grandparent scams?
Yes, Montreal is a key place for these scams. Some networks are linked to organized crime.
What parallel cases show the scope of the problem?
U.S. authorities charged 25 Quebecers in another case. They’re accused of about million in fraud. These cases are happening alongside Di Rienzo’s.
How does Gareth West fit into the broader narrative?
Gareth West is accused of using a real estate developer image for fraud. This mirrors the Di Rienzo case.
Why do name spellings and variants matter?
Different spellings help track the case. They show up in filings and news updates.
What family-name queries are common?
People search for di rienzo family and genealogy. They want to understand the background and connections in media and court reports.
Which local legal terms are useful for following the case?
Terms like Palais justice Montreal are useful. They help track arrests and filings. References to francis jewellers and Catherine Cookson books sometimes appear in broader research.