Police Warn Of Storm Related Phone Scam

[Henry]

Vermont State Police would like to make residents aware of an investigation into reported phone scams in the southern Vermont area.

Vermont State Police are currently investigating suspicious phone calls received by the public in which the caller states they are with the Vermont State Police and that they are calling area residents with regards to the recent ice storm, particularly the widespread loss of electricity.

The caller requests donations to the "Athletic Scholarship Fund."

The Vermont State Police as an agency is not involved in soliciting funds for this agency or any other organization.

Anyone receiving any suspicious phone calls of this nature should report them to their respective police agency for investigation.

If you have any suspicion or doubt as to the legitimacy of the person or organization soliciting your support, do not give out any personal information and contact the police in your area. There is also a "verification line" you should not hesitate to call at 1-800-649-7012.

The scam originated in the southern portions of the state, but has now spread north.

[Dick Brown]

Henry            There have been similar scams in Florida recently, always following some disastrous event and unfortunately,  many people are drawn in because they sincerely want to help out. The advice given to you to pass on by the Vermont State Police mirrors that which was passed along by the Florida Highway Patrol. The phone number to verify the agency is of equal importance to those who have been contacted.   
In Florida's case, the calls were coming out of NJ, but could not be tracked to a real location. 
Once again, your website has performed a critical public service to its participants, and you should be proud of your role .
By the way, at 4pm, the temp in Dade City is considerably higher then the freezing point, which is good because I can't find my shovel !!!

[Henry]

Was going to put some salt on my driveway and when I went out the ice had pretty much turned to slush as temperature was in the mid 40s - Snow is practically all gone, although I do hope we don't end up with a green Christmas - Below is Dave & Julie Filberti's Web Weather from the Hill in Buck Hollow: