Scam Alert

Patriots fundraiser scam targets peninsula, Wiscasset service organizations

Wed, 08/19/2015 - 11:00am

    The Boothbay Harbor Police Department warns residents to be aware of another scam making its way around the peninsula.

    Scammers are calling local businesses and residences and asking for support for a youth football clinic with former Patriots football players. In some cases, the caller claims the fundraiser is to support local ambulance or fire departments.

    If the resident agrees to make a donation or purchase tickets, the scammer arranges to stop by the home or business to pick up a check or cash donation.

    Officer Scott Mercier said he contacted  New England Patriots Alumni Club President Peter Brock and there are no such clinics planned for this area. Brock said the alumni club is only hosting two clinics in Maine this year and neither is in the Boothbay region. Brock said when the club holds these events they are always well-advertised.

    Mercier said any resident who is contacted about financially supporting this event should call the Boothbay Harbor Police Department at 207-633-5616. Police remind residents to be wary of any caller soliciting money or personal information.

    Wiscasset Ambulance Service Director Roland Abbott said Aug. 19 that the service’s name is now being used in connection with the Patriots-themed scam. The service is doing no solicitations themed around the Patriots or anything else, Abbott said.