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Houston Police Warn Citizens to Beware of Scam Artists

September 1, 2005 -- In light of the catastrophic events of hurricane Katrina, caring individuals are opening their hearts and checkbooks to donate money to charities to help the thousands of individuals who are in dire need of our help.

Unfortunately, during the most stressful of times, there are individuals out there who are going to try and take advantage of heartful and selfless people in order to make money.

Houston police are urging the citizens of Houston and surrounding areas who wish to make a donation, to donate to the American Red Cross at 1-800-HELP NOW or other charitable organizations with proven track records. Do not give money to anyone who is soliciting money by foot or telephone. The known charitable organizations do not solicit funding in either of these manners.

If you have witnessed and/or been a victim of this type of scam, please report it to your local police agency.

MES
9-1-05

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.