From: Chief P.K. Johnson
Millbrook Police Department
The Millbrook Police Department wishes to alert the public of a potential scam, where an unknown person or person(s) are attempting to elicit funds from local businesses or individuals by representing themselves as local, state or federal law enforcement officials, citing some type of investigation and threatening arrest if the individual(s) contacted fails to comply with the caller’s instructions.
Unfortunately, this is an extortion tactic that we’ve seen developing in the surrounding area and across this country for some time now. We’ve had reports from citizens, who have been contacted by a law enforcement agency, where the caller alleges they are an officer, deputy or agent representing a local, state or federal agency. During the call, the caller will state that they have a relative in custody, stating they require bond or fines to be paid for the person in custody to be released or have their criminal charges cleared.
In a recent call for service, a local business was contacted by an individual posing as a state law enforcement agent, who was conducting an investigation. The caller advised the store clerk to remove cash from the businesses safe, and all cash receipts taken in by the business on the date in question and meet with the law enforcement official at another location. When the clerk began to ask questions, the alleged law enforcement official threatened arrest, stating that if the clerk refused to comply that they would be subject to arrest.
We want our citizens and businesses to be aware, law enforcement will not contact anyone by phone for the purpose of collecting fines or asking assistance, which involves the transfer of cash or other financial considerations, either in person or electronically. Fortunately, the clerk in our most recent case disengaged from the phone conversation immediately, contacting her immediate supervisor and the business owner, who promptly contacted law enforcement.
Should anyone receive similar communications, you should immediately cease contact with the individual and notify your local law enforcement agency immediately. Do not give any individual any personal identifying information or communicate with them electronically, as you are potentially providing them access to information that may be exploited.
