Officials Warn of Fund-Raising Scams
With the holiday season approaching, Los Angeles city officials warned the public Monday to be aware of fund-raising scams that claim to represent police and fire organizations.
“Every year I hear about fund-raising impostors who use the police or fire department’s name to raise money for what turns out to be other than real charitable causes,” said City Councilwoman Laura Chick, chairwoman of the council’s Public Safety Committee.
City officials said anyone who receives a telephone solicitation should be wary, especially if the caller claims to work for the Los Angeles police or fire departments.
“The LAPD and LAFD never solicit money or conduct any fund-raising over the telephone,” Chick said.
LAPD Cmdr. Dave Kalish said each year police “receive many inquiries and complaints regarding telemarketers attempting to collect on behalf of our public safety departments.”
The LAPD and LAFD have nonprofit organizations that residents can contact if they are interested in donating money, city officials said.
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