Many of our community programs rely on fundraising. But two recent scams point out the need to ask questions before handing over your money.
Last week, police warned that fundraising calls for area Fire Departments were a fraud. Days later, teens tried to take advantage of community spirit in Weston. Materials indicate they may have intended to extend the scam to Southborough or Northborough.
The Metrowest Daily News reports that four Ashland teenagers were arrested for a fake raffle scam in Weston.
Two of the teens were arrested by Weston police after a resident reported their suspicious activity and information on the vehicle they were driving. This led to the arrest of two other teens involved.
The Ashland teens were posing as Weston High School students raising money for the cross-country team. MWDN reports:
“During questioning, all four admitted to being involved in the scam,” Lt. Maguire said. . .
When Weston Police searched the car, they found a roll of raffle tickets, and homemade fliers for Weston High School and Algonquin Regional High School.
“These fliers detailed the fundraising event and even listed a variety of prizes,” Lt. Maguire said. “There was also evidence that some tickets had been sold to at least two other Weston residents.”
Police characterized the scam as “poorly thought out”, partly based on the teens’ lack of knowledge about the Weston team and community. It was their inability to answer the Weston resident’s basic questions that led him to report the crime.
So the next time someone asks you to support a local cause, don’t be afraid to ask questions or check with the Southborough Police.
For the full MWDN story, click here.
