Scam Artist Pretending To Collect Donations For LPD: Police

LAKEWOOD, CO — Some Lakewood businesses have reported a scam artist who is pretending to collect donations for the Lakewood Police Department. The department has issued a warning to the public.

The businesses said the suspect is "very aggressive" with his solicitations, police said.

"Please know that the we will NEVER ask you for money and donations," police said in a tweet.

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Earlier this year, a similar scam was reported — someone was calling Jefferson County residents and asking for donations to the Lakewood Police Department.

In one of the phone scam cases, the scammer asked for donations to police for COVID-19 assistance, officials said. In another case, the scammer asked to "take care of" a warrant or legal matter. Both scams used a "spoofing application" that allows an LPD phone number to show up on the screen of the victim's screen when they answer the call.

The scammer may provide a number for a return call — do not use that number, police said. Instead, call Jeffcom911 at the non-emergency number — 303-980-7300.