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

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.

Advertisement



Join the club!

Do you love what we're doing on Oak Ridge Today? Do you appreciate our quick, comprehensive coverage? Our efforts to keep the community informed and encourage civil discussion of important issues?

Then, consider becoming a voluntary subscriber to Oak Ridge Today. You don't have to subscribe to read our stories, but your contribution will help us grow and offer you even more information.

We currently offer three subscription levels: $5, $10, or $25 per month. We accept payments through PayPal. You may also visit our subscription page for information on other options.

Thank you for helping us grow so quickly and becoming a "must read" website for many local residents.


Subscription options






Advertisement



Comment Policy

We welcome comments, but we ask you to follow a few guidelines:
1) Use your real name.
2) Be civil.
3) Stick to the issues and don't get personal.
4) Don't insult others or attack their character.
5) Profanity is not allowed.
6) Keep your comments to a reasonable length and to a reasonable number per article.

We reserve the right to delete, without warning, any comments that violate these guidelines.

More information is available in the announcement of our commenting guidelines.

  • http://www.facebook.com/daniel.powers.336 Daniel Powers

    Always beware of anyone coming door to door.

    • http://www.facebook.com/johnhuotari John Huotari

      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.