Oakland County Warns Residents Of Special Needs Kids Camp Scam

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI — Oakland County officials are warning residents not to fall for a scam claiming to support a summer camp for kids with special needs.

Officials said scammers are targeting business owners who are made to believe their donation is helping a child go to a summer camp, which does not exist.

Subscribe

A camp flyer suggests a donation of $150 for one kid and $400 for a family that will cover camp costs.

There was also a website, which does not exist, a 1-800 phone number and a contact, Mrs. Alex, listed on the flyer.

"Thank You and God bless you for giving," the flyer states.

Officials believe a woman has been posting the flyers around Oakland and Wayne counties. They did not release a name or description of the woman.

The phone number is connected to a legitimate financial services business, but they have nothing to do with any camp, officials said.

A person at the business told detectives he receives about four calls a week from potential donors asking about the camp. He encouraged the callers to avoid any donation.

Officials became aware of the scam after a Pontiac restaurant owner was swindled out of $150 after donating to the phony camp.

"People that seek to violate the goodwill and generosity of caring people for their own enrichment must be held accountable," Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard said. "If there are more victims out there, it will allow us to substantially increase the charges against this heartless scammer."

If you have been targeted by this fake charity, you are asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 248-858-4950.