KSP warns of telephone fundraising scams using state police name

FRANKFORT, Ky. - Citizens throughout the Commonwealth should be on guard for telephone solicitations requesting donations for the benefit of the Kentucky State Police.

According to Lt. David Jude, commander of the KSP Media Relations Branch, the agency has received numerous reports from individuals throughout the state regarding efforts to raise funds for the families of fallen troopers or to purchase drug dogs for schools.

“These calls are not authorized by the Kentucky State Police,” he said. “They should be reported to the nearest state police post as soon as possible.”

The agency’s Electronic Crimes Branch is conducting an on-going investigation of the matter, he added.

The Kentucky State Police Professional Association, a separate organization consisting of KSP troopers and retirees, occasionally conducts fundraising efforts, but is not involved in such activities at this time.

The Kentucky State Police offer the following tips to reduce the risk of telephone fraud:

• When in doubt, ask for more information in writing.
• Never feel obligated to provide your credit card number over the phone.
• Ask questions such as “How much of the donation will go directly to the charity as opposed to paying for administrative costs?” The fewer questions the caller can answer, the less likely it is legitimate.
• Ask for a call-back number or website address so you can research the organization and contact them later.
• Hang up if a caller offers to send a messenger to your home to pick up cash or a check.