Imposters Pretend To Be Bradenton Police Lieutenant In Scam: BPD

BRADENTON, FL — In a new scam, imposters are calling residents pretending to be Lieutenant William Weldon and other senior officers with the Bradenton Police Department, the agency wrote in a Facebook post.

The callers ask their victims to send gift cards or money because they have an outstanding warrant or traffic ticket.

The scammers also ask for personal information, including credit or debit card numbers, banking information, social security numbers, prepaid gift cards, or remote access to the victim’s computer, the department said.

They use spoofing technology to change the caller ID so their call appears as though it originates from the Bradenton Police Department.

“A law enforcement or court official WILL NEVER ask you to wire money, provide prepaid gift cards, or ask for your confidential information over the phone or via email,” BPD wrote. “HANG UP if you receive one of these calls.”

Those who believe they’ve been a victim of one of these scams are asked to call the department at 941-932-9300 or email Detective Michael Carpenter at michael.carpenter@bradentonpd.com.

Complaints can also be filed with the Attorney General’s Office online atwww.myfloridalegal.com or by phone at 1-866-9-NO SCAM.