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SHERIFF CARMINE MARCENO’S JANUARY 2025 FRAUD ALERT: L.A. FIRE RELIEF SCAMS

SHERIFF CARMINE MARCENO’S JANUARY 2025 FRAUD ALERT: L.A. FIRE RELIEF SCAMS

Currently, the fires raging in California have claimed the lives of a minimum of 27 people, have burned approximately 40,000 acres of land and have caused unimaginable suffering and loss.

With an ominous forecast for increased Santa Ana winds, the worst is far from over.

Before all else, it is paramount that we recognize the incredible and courageous work of all first responders and volunteers. Their efforts and their sacrifices are ineffable.

As concerned Americans, and as Americans do, we are driven to help in any way possible. There are numerous credible and reputable agencies at work in and around Los Angeles and their accomplishments, to date, are wondrous.

Sadly, and as is usually the case, scammers see these catastrophic incidents as opportunities to embezzle and defraud well-intended donors.

Please take a few moments to verify that a chosen charity is reputable. Search for the charity by visiting give.org/news/trusted-charities-supporting-southern-california-wildfire-relief. These are Better Business Bureau accredited charities currently doing quality work for the residents of the Los Angeles area.

Beware of unsolicited appeals for assistance…especially from vague and unknown “charities.”

You may receive emails and texts, or see social media links, promising to link you to familiar charitable organizations. Some may appear to be pleas from celebrities, athletes, etc. AI technology makes it easy to create convincing requests.

Having suffered our own losses here in Southwest Florida, we understand the value of community assistance. We simply ask that you invest a bit of time prior to making any donations.