BFPD warns of fraud from false officer

BONNERS FERRY — A scam warning has been issued by the Bonners Ferry Police Department regarding a report of officer impersonation.  

On Tuesday afternoon, a community member contacted BFPD after receiving a message from a Sergeant Frisco, a supposed BFPD officer, regarding his adult son.  

However, BFPD does not have an officer by that name. 

BFPD reported that the community member received a call from BFPD’s phone number.

“Sergeant Frisco left a personal number where he could be reached back at 208-702-4021,” BFPD officials said in a press release. “The number goes to a voicemail asking for you to leave your name and number belonging to Sergeant Frisco. 

“They are utilizing a tactic known as spoofing to use our number to contact unsuspecting citizens,” BFPD Assistant Chief Jeremy Garrett said. “This is a reminder; no law enforcement agency will ever call you asking for money to clear your name or on behalf of a family member asking for money. Do not provide this individual or anyone else with any of your personal information if they call you.” 

Another popular scam is going around again involving sending money to an unknown individual to obtain a larger sum of money in return.  The money will not be returned, Garrett said.  

“Once you send them the small amount of money they ask for, the individuals ask for more money,” Garrett said. “They will never send you the large sum of money they claim. Please do not fall prey to these individuals because due to their sophisticated ability to hide behind false phone numbers, addresses, and identities there is slim to no chance that anyone will be able to identify the perpetrator.” 

If you ever have any questions as to whether you are speaking with one of your local law enforcement officers or not, call the non-emergency dispatch number at 208-267-3151.