FBI Probes Firm in Alleged Phone Scam

FBI officials searched the offices of a San Diego company that allegedly conducted a nationwide telephone scam by inducing victims to send in thousands of dollars in exchange for cash and prizes as part of an anti-drug program.

Federal authorities seized documents Thursday from the offices of Page Norton Inc. in the 3400 block of Kurtz Street, FBI officials said. The company, which operated under the name Say No Now, allegedly used telephone solicitors to contact people and lead them to believe they had won prizes ranging from a $10,000 cash award to a new Chrysler.

Those solicited were told to send in various amounts of money, often by express mail, to cover tax costs related to their prizes, FBI officials said. Some were allegedly led to believe they were supporting an anti-drug program.

In one case, an Ohio woman told FBI agents that she sent nearly $20,000 to the company on the promise she had won a “huge” prize. But, in exchange for her money, the woman received 1,000 coloring books, seven boxes of unassembled patio furniture, a watch and a computer, according to an affidavit used to obtain the search warrant.

Say No Now solicitors also contacted an Indiana woman who told FBI agents that she had sent $7,500 to the company on the promise she had won a big award and lots of cash, the court document says. But instead of the prizes, the Kokomo woman received bumper stickers, a rhinestone bracelet and a box of steaks from a Say No Now employee.

FBI officials said the company claimed to be affiliated with a number of federal agencies. The investigation is continuing.