LAKE CITY, Fla. – The Lake City Police Department is warning the community of a scam occurring at local grocery stores and bank parking lots that involves suspects impersonating members of the church.
According to police, the scam begins with the suspects approaching elderly women in these areas and sparking up a friendly conversation.
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The suspects then state that they have a big bag containing a large amount of money and ask the victims if they’d like to share it.
“The suspects then convince the victim to accompany them to a local bank and withdraw cash from their personal account,” police said. “The victim is told the money must be placed into a bag with money the suspect claims to already have.”
In some instances, police say a second suspect will approach the victim and pretend not to know the first suspect, but “reinforces the story” or attempts to further distract the victim.
The scam typically ends with the suspect leaving the scene with the victim’s money.
The Lake City Police Department provided the following safety tips to help residents avoid falling victim to this scam.
- Do not share personal or financial information with strangers.
- Do not withdraw money from your bank at the request of someone you do not know.
- Be cautious of individuals who approach you in parking lots or stores with stories involving requests for help.
- If you feel uncomfortable or suspect a scam, leave the area and contact law enforcement immediately.
- If you have elderly family members, please discuss this scam with them so they are aware of how it works.
Anyone with information regarding any crime is encouraged to contact the Lake City Police Department at (386) 752-4343 or report information anonymously through the LCPD TIPS line at (386) 719-2068 or Crime Stoppers of Columbia County at (386) 754-7099.