con artists.

neighbors have been telling stories of a con artists claiming to be from Tulsa. call the police if you come across him.


a message from MPDC,


5D Community,

AS SPRING ARRIVES, MPDC WARNS RESIDENTSTO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR CON ARTISTS

While spring means the blooming of the cherry blossoms and other plants, it can also bring out con artists and other criminals seeking to profit from unsuspecting victims. Some of the most common cons and swindles this time of year are bogus home repair offers, fraudulent door-to-door charities, and individuals posing as police officers or bank investigators who claim to be investigating fraudulent tellers or counterfeit schemes. DC residents are urged to be wary of any "something-for- nothing" offers. Always ask for offers in writing, read over all contracts before you sign, and never agree to "cash-only" deals. Do not hesitate to check the credentials of anyone who comes to your door. Ask to see official identification and inspect it carefully. Legitimate organizations - especially real police officers - will not hesitate to comply. And if you have been victimized by a con artist, please call the police and report it. This is the only way that law enforcement can detect patterns and identify and apprehend offenders.

For more information about con games and swindles, click on:

http://mpdc.dc.gov/mpdc/cwp/view,a,1237,q,543147,mpdcNav_GID,1548.asp

Information, ideas, or comments?

KAYLIN CASTELLI, in MPDC's Office of Communications, at kaylin.castelli@ dc.gov