ST LOUIS (News First) – The Missouri State Highway Patrol is warning the public about a telephone scam in the St. Louis and Poplar Bluff regions. In the past month, the organization has reported several incidents called into the Troop C and E offices. In each case, a suspect contacted an individual associated with someone who was involved in a motor vehicle crash, identified themselves as the investigating trooper and attempted to solicit money from the victim. The suspect may intimidate the victim with false claims of impending or nonexistent court charges/proceedings.
The public should understand that Highway Patrol employees will not contact individuals and solicit funds or demand any form of payment. Furthermore, employees do not process bonds or accept money to prevent or dispose of charges.
The Missouri Highway Patrol says If a person asks you to send your money anywhere, you should always assume it’s a scam. They urge residents to take time verifying the information by calling phone numbers you locate on verified websites. You should not confirm any identifying information about yourself to the scammer.
If you or someone you know has been contacted similarly, please report the incident to your local Troop Headquarters.
