Stafford Police Launch Free Scam Workshop for Seniors

Scammers are getting smarter, but Stafford Township seniors are about to get smarter still.

The Stafford Township Police Department is teaming up with the Mental Health Association in New Jersey's Senior Success Program to host a free scam awareness seminar on February 19. Lt. Anthony Vincent will lead the session, teaching Ocean County residents aged 60 and older how to recognize fraud before it costs them.

The two-hour workshop covers the tactics scammers use most. Vincent will show attendees how to spot common red flags, protect personal and financial information, and safely handle suspicious phone calls, emails, and door-to-door visits.

The timing couldn't be better. Scams targeting older adults have surged in recent years, with fraudsters using increasingly sophisticated techniques to steal money and personal data. Many seniors lose thousands of dollars to phone scams, fake IRS calls, and phishing emails designed to look legitimate.

The Ripple Effect

This workshop does more than protect individual seniors. When one person learns to spot a scam, they often share that knowledge with friends, family, and neighbors. Education creates a ripple of protection through entire communities.

The event also builds trust between law enforcement and the seniors they serve. By offering practical help rather than just warnings, police officers like Lt. Vincent become partners in safety rather than distant authorities.

The seminar is part of the Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE), funded by grants from the Ocean County Board of Commissioners. That means no cost to attendees, who will also receive a light lunch, giveaways, and raffle prizes.

The Mental Health Association will collect basic demographic information to satisfy grant requirements, but all responses remain strictly confidential. Space is limited, and organizers encourage early registration.

Interested seniors can call Suzanne at 732-703-6706 to reserve a spot. The event takes place from noon to 2 PM at 691 Mill Creek Road, Unit 13, in Manahawkin.

Communities thrive when neighbors protect neighbors, and knowledge is the best defense against fraud.