Scammers Targeting Bowling Green Residents

News Summary

Bowling Green residents are warned about a new scam where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officers. The scammers claim that individuals have unpaid citations and demand payments of up to $5,000. The Bowling Green Police Department emphasizes that any warrants will not be handled over the phone and encourages citizens to verify the identity of any officers claiming otherwise. Staying informed and vigilant is crucial to avoid falling victim to these deceptive tactics.

Scammers on the Prowl in Bowling Green

Bowling Green residents, beware! A sneaky scam has come knocking at your door, or rather, ringing your phone! The local police department has sounded the alarm about a growing scam that has been making waves since Wednesday. It’s not just any scam — it’s one that impersonates the finest: our law enforcement officers.

How the Scheme Works

Here’s how this phony operation plays out: a caller pretends to be a genuine law enforcement officer. Yes, you heard that right! The scammer goes above and beyond to convince you that they are the real deal, claiming you have two unpaid citations that need urgent attention. And just when you think it can’t get any crazier, they hit you with a demand for payment — a whopping $5,000! Yes, an entire five grand just to clear those non-existent citations.

Meet ‘Sergeant Hogue’

What’s more mind-boggling is that one of the impersonators has taken on the name of Sergeant Brad Hogue. This is part of the elaborate ruse to gain your trust. The scammer is so bold that they even throw around “creative” ways to settle the payment! It sounds like something straight out of a movie, but let me assure you, it is alarmingly real.

How to Protect Yourself

Now, hold your horses before you whip out your wallet! The Bowling Green Police Department (BGPD) has made it crystal clear that warrants are never served or settled over the phone. Don’t be fooled! They do not accept any money, Bitcoin, or any other form of payment when it comes to warrants. If you feel uncertain about a call, your best bet is to hang up — don’t engage with these crafty con artists!

Confirm with the Pros

Wondering how to figure out if the officer on the other end of the line is the real McCoy? It’s easier than you think! Residents are encouraged to verify any officer’s identity by contacting BGPD’s dispatch center directly. A fast call can save you not only your hard-earned cash but also a world of trouble. Always remember, it’s okay to be skeptical. A little caution goes a long way!

Staying Alert

The Bowling Green Police Department is on a mission to get the word out about this scam to keep residents safe. They want everyone to be informed and stay vigilant against these scams that prey on unsuspecting citizens. The goal is to make sure that no one falls victim to these tricks.

Community Support

If you or someone you know has received a suspicious phone call, it’s crucial to report it to the authorities. The more information that is shared, the better the chances of stopping these scam artists in their tracks. Your report could help protect your neighbors from being scammed.

Keep Your Guard Up

As we all go about our daily lives in Bowling Green, it’s important to remain aware of the tactics that scammers use. They often rely on fear and urgency to make their victims act quickly. So, take a deep breath, think twice, and know that the real officers are here to protect and serve, not to act as collection agents over the phone.

Stay safe, Bowling Green! Remember to keep your guard up. The best defense against scammers is a well-informed community.

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Additional Resources

• WBKO: Unpaid Citation Scam Alert
• Wikipedia: Scam
• WNKY: Ongoing Scam Warning
• Google Search: Bowling Green scam
• Kentucky.com: Bowling Green Crime Report
• Google Scholar: Bowling Green Police Scam
• WBKO: Toll Service Scam in Kentucky
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Scam Prevention
• Toledo Blade: Jury Duty Phone Scam Warning
• Google News: Scam Alerts