“Sophia Scam”, Similar Scam Make Way To Elizabethtown

The Elizabethtown Police Department wants to warn citizens about a nationwide charity scam that the FBI has warned about previously that has made its way to the area. “Panhandlers traveling in groups are showing up in densely populated areas such as major intersections, parking lots and they’re holding signs that indicate they’re soliciting donations to benefit a small child named Sofia, who is in need of a life-saving heart surgery. We’ve also received reports that individuals, providing a similar story, are approaching citizens selling jewelry that appears to be made of gold. A handful of citizens have purchased the jewelry and attempted to pawn it only to find out that it’s not genuine. Despite how convincing the story may be, please do not fall for the scam. No matter how heart-wrenching. These individuals are not advocating on behalf of a child in need,” Elizabethtown Police Public Affairs Officer Chris Denham. If anyone observes people engaging in this scam, you are encouraged to contact the Elizabethtown Police immediately.