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‘Scam artist’ poses as Claxton firefighter, asks for money

Posted at 11:32 pm September 12, 2012
By John Huotari 2 Comments

Someone posing as a member of the Claxton Volunteer Fire Department has attempted to fraudulently obtain money from two different homeowners in Claxton, Anderson County Chief Deputy Mark Lucas said Wednesday.

“The scam artist apparently went door-to-door on Old Edgemoor Road soliciting money from residents, telling them if they do not pay the fire department will not respond if there is a fire,” Lucas said.

He said two people have notified have notified Chief Donnie Shipley of the alleged scam, but there could be other victims.

Lucas said the two residents were suspicious and did not pay.

“This is a scam, and Chief Shipley wishes to inform all residents that the fire department responds to all fires, medical calls, and other emergencies in the Claxton community,” Lucas said. “The fire department also does not solicit door-to-door.”

Lucas said the Anderson County Sheriff’s Department will investigate the incidents as attempted fraud.

No description of the person involved is available, and investigators will be following up to identify the suspect, Lucas said.

Filed Under: Police and Fire Tagged With: Anderson County Sheriff's Department, Chief Donnie Shipley, Claxton Volunteer Fire Department, Mark Lucas

Comments

  1. Daniel Powers says

    September 13, 2012 at 8:15 pm

    Always beware of anyone coming door to door.

    Reply
    • John Huotari says

      September 14, 2012 at 12:02 pm

      I generally agree. I know people who have been victims of fraudulent door-to-door sales. Have you ever received those calls from people who claim to be raising money for local firefighters by selling concert tickets, usually to see a country musician? I’ve been meaning to check to see if those are legitimate.

      Reply

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