East Valley Focus : PANORAMA CITY : Scam Reported on Church Donations

On the eve of one of the most sacred holy days, Ash Wednesday, a Catholic church in San Fernando reported that two con artists claiming to represent the parish are going door-to-door seeking donations.

“They are two tall Hispanic guys, with dark hair, dressed in dark blue,” said Teresa Vinson of Santa Rosa Church. “They have nothing to do with us. We have never gone door-to-door asking for money.”

The men appear to be working in Panorama City on Sepulveda Boulevard between Nordhoff Street and Roscoe Boulevard, Vinson said. The Los Angeles Police Department has been informed of the scam.

Bearing a large yellow legal pad and a facsimile copy of the church’s letterhead, the two men knock on doors and ask for money on behalf of the church, noting that the building was recently closed and under repair for earthquake damages.

While some people have given donations, others became suspicious and called the church to check out the pair.

“One woman called me today and said she invited the men into her house,” Vinson said. “She asked them if they would wait while she phoned the church for confirmation. The men both left her house immediately. She was not harmed.”

So far, Vinson said three people have called to inquire about the two men.

Church officials estimate the congregation has about 10,000 members. Currently, services are held under tents erected on church property. Repairs to the building should be completed within three months.

Anyone with information about the scam should contact the LAPD or church officials at (818) 361-4617.