Clinton Twp. Resident Pays Nearly $35K In Sweepstakes Scam

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, MI — A Publisher’s Clearing House scam is making the rounds, and a Clinton Township resident fell victim to it.

Det. Sgt. Anthony Coppola said in a news release that the resident received a call in May from an individual who claimed to represent the direct marketer that draws attention to its products by providing consumers a chance to win sweepstakes prizes.

The caller claimed the victim had won $2.5 million, but to claim the winnings, installment moneygram payments had to be made. Installment payments of $34,923.99 were made to parties both within and outside of the United States.

A Clinton Township detective investigated the incident and was able to have nearly all funds returned to the victim, according to the news release.

Coppola reminded residents to verify the authenticity of any sweepstakes or lottery winnings with the company directly before proceeding with any action.