Panel to Discuss Scams Targeting Seniors

On Oct. 18, a panel of legal experts will detail how crooks use clever schemes to defraud their victims, including a large percentage of seniors.

The free discussion, “Stop the Scam,” is sponsored by the Lompoc Hospital District Foundation and will begin at 6 p.m.

The lectures are held at the Dick DeWees Community and Senior Center, 1120 W. Ocean Ave., in conjunction with the city of Lompoc’s Park and Recreation Division.

Three speakers will discuss scams about lottery winnings, technical support, phishing, romance scams and more. Attendees will learn how to protect themselves and others and understand the warning signs for various scams.

There will be detailed information on fraud prevention, intervention and victim support services.

The speakers will include Vicki Johnson, a semi-retired senior deputy district attorney with the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office who has been a prosecutor for three decades. She has handled a wide variety of cases including identity theft, welfare and insurance fraud, domestic violence, child abuse, assault and battery, criminal threats and murder.

Also presenting will be Dayton Aldrich, J.D., a Restitution Specialist and Victim Advocate for the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office. Dayton is responsible for facilitating restitution claims for criminal cases.

Monica Zarate, a Victim Advocate for four years, will also provide information. She works with those experiencing trauma, assisting them in navigating the criminal justice system.

There is one more Foundation lecture scheduled this year, on Nov. 29. The “Caregiver Information Session” will also take place at the DeWees Center. The informative session will provide caregivers with essential information and resources.