A Calgary woman who played a key role in a predatory scam targeting senior citizens is facing uncertainty about her sentencing after a judge raised serious concerns about whether a proposed punishment is tough enough.
Alana Love Duncan, 48, pleaded guilty last October to seven counts of fraud linked to a scheme that victimized grandparents between mid-July and mid-August 2023. The scams exploited a common trick: fraudsters convinced elderly Calgarians their grandchildren or relatives were in legal trouble and needed cash immediately.
The victims lost a combined $70,000 to the scam, with some handing over money while others transferred property.
Joint Proposal Under Review
During Friday's sentencing hearing at Calgary Courts Centre, Crown prosecutor Don Couturier and defence lawyer Mary Stephensen jointly proposed a conditional sentence order: two years less a day served in the community rather than prison. The proposal includes 12 months of strict house arrest followed by a year under nightly curfew.
However, Justice Michele Hollins signalled concern that this arrangement may not reflect the seriousness of the crime or provide adequate accountability for the harm caused to vulnerable residents.
Restitution Offer
As part of the joint proposal, Duncan has agreed to make restitution of $18,000 through monthly payments of $258 spread over five years. While this addresses some financial recovery, it represents only a portion of the $70,000 victims lost.
The case underscores the ongoing vulnerability of seniors to sophisticated fraud schemes that exploit family relationships and create artificial urgency. Authorities across Alberta have repeatedly warned older residents to verify claims from family members through independent channels before sending money or transferring assets.
A final sentencing decision from Justice Hollins is pending.
This story is based on reporting from the Calgary Herald.