According to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, residents have reported receiving calls from computer-generated phone numbers asking for donations to a group called “Back the Blue.” The callers reportedly have heavy foreign accents and are described as aggressive and demanding. When residents refuse to donate, the callers often become belligerent or even threatening.
Authorities say this is a scam, and no legitimate law enforcement agency would solicit donations in this manner. Residents are urged to hang up immediately if they receive one of these calls.
In a similar scam, other residents have been contacted by callers claiming to organize a monetary raffle to benefit local law enforcement officers and their families. Again, the callers are described as having heavy foreign accents and using high-pressure tactics, becoming hostile when donations are refused.
Merchant says the scammers prey on the goodwill of hard-working residents who support law enforcement, pressuring them to give away their money.
Anyone who receives a call of this type is advised to hang up immediately. If you believe you have been a victim of a scam, you are encouraged to notify your local law enforcement agency as soon as possible.
