Lake County Sheriff’s Office warns of scam

of fundraising scam is not new, but “we want all our The Lake County Sheriff’s residents to understand that Office is warning of the we will not call you and ask latest scam to swindle residents for money, nor will we participate out of money. in any such fundraising

Sheriff Frank Leonbruno program conducted said his department has received through telemarketing.” multiple calls asking He offered the following people to donate money to tips when receiving such a the Lake County Sheriff’s call:

Office. • Resist pressure to give

“Specifically, the caller on the spot. Instead, ask if stated that they were Sheriff the representative can send Frank Leonbruno and the you more information. person speaking was asking • Ask how your donation foramoneydonationtobenefitoursheriff’soffice,”thereal will be used. Beware vague replies and any unwillingness Leonbruno said in a Facebook to send you details post. “This is a scam.” about how the group

Leonbruno said the sheriff’s spends donations. office has never called • Look up charities. Check people to raise money for a group out before making a the department. donation. Plenty of sites evaluate

Those receiving a call and review charities, asking for a donation or such as CharityNavigator.org, that the caller is raising Guidestar.org and Give.org. money for the department • Give to established should hang up immediately, charities. Stick with charities Leonbruno said. you’re familiar with.

“Do not give them your • Never give cash. Skip information and certainly telemarketing sales appeals do not give them your banking entirely and send a check information,” he said. to the organization of your

Leonbruno said this type choice in your own time.