Calcasieu Parish Sheriff, Tony Mancuso, has issued a warning for all area residents. Citizens have reported getting a phone call from a person, posing to be a relative.  The person goes on to say they are in trouble and need money immediately.  THIS IS A SCAM!

Granted, most people would recognize this as a scam.  However elderly people may fall victim to this type of crime rather easily.  So Sheriff Mancuso wants everyone to be aware that the latest "phone scam" going on in the area.  If you recieve such a call, be sure to report it.  In the meantime, spread the word to family and friends.

Below are a few tips from the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office to help local residents avoid becoming a victim of a scam:

* Resist the pressure to make an immediate decision. Fraudsters create a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly

Verify the information before sending any money

* Never wire money based on a request made over the phone or in an e-mail. Keep in mind that wiring money is like giving cash—once you send it, you cannot get it back.

If you or anyone you know has been victimized by these scammers, please contact the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office at 491-3605.

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