Sheriff Warns Of Scam Soliciting Money For Fallen Deputies
BALTIMORE (WJZ) — Scam alert. Someone claiming to represent a police organization is making calls soliciting money for the families of the two sheriff's deputies killed in the line of duty in Harford County--but it's a con job.
Amy Yensi has more on a warning from the sheriff.
Someone is using the tragedy to con people out of their money. If you get one of these calls, do not make a donation.
A community still healing from the killings of two Harford County deputies is now fuming mad that someone is using the tragedy to gain a quick buck or two.
"It's taking away from the very heart of this community," said Jamie Topper.
Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey Ghaler tells WJZ he's gotten several reports of a scammer calling residents to ask for donations, posing as a member of the Fraternal Order of Police.
The caller claims the money is for the families of slain deputies Patrick Dailey and Mark Logsdon.
"Everyone is looking out for the needs of Pat and Mark's families, and that's what we care about moving foward," said Sheriff Ghaler. "That someone would take advantage of that for their own financial gain, it's despicable."
Sheriff Ghaler says his office would never make solicitation calls.
The FOP isn't behind the calls either and doesn't represent deputies in the county.
Residents tell WJZ they're absolutely appalled that anyone would take advantage of a tragedy they're still trying to cope with.
"It's blatantly wrong," Topper said. "Especially when you see flowers and memorials and a dedication being called on the highway. How dare you?"
"I think it's incredibly low, deceptive," said Lindsay Amos." They're playing off people's emotions."
Emotions that are still running high.
"Stuff like this brings out the very, very best in people--and that you love to see--and it brings out the worst in people, and that's what we're seeing. This person is the worst of people," said the sheriff.
The sheriff says, so far, they don't know of anyone who has made a donation. The scam is under investigation.
If you'd like to donate to the families for deputies Dailey and Logsdon visit the following: Help Patrick Dailey's Family, Harford County Deputy Sheriff's Union Benevolent Fund.