Crime & Safety

Warning Issued After Scammer Targets Watsonville Business

The suspect claims he needs to conduct an annual fire extinguisher inspection that costs $25 fee per extinguisher.

WATSONVILLE, CA β€” The Watsonville Fire Department is reporting a potential scam regarding fire extinguisher inspections. A local business on Freedom Boulevard was recently approached by a man claiming to be there for an annual fire extinguisher inspection that would cost $25 fee per extinguisher, officials reported. The man alleged he was from a company called FireShield, but could not produce a phone number, business card or correct addressβ€”he gave the employees a false address, officials said.

The suspected scammer is described as white/possibly Hispanic, approximately 5'5" in height, dark hair, with a baseball cap, dark gray t-shirt and jeans. He was carrying a clipboard with a piece of paper on it that said "FireShield," officials said.

If your business encounters this person or any suspicious individuals claiming to be from this business, call police.

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