BUNNELL, Fla. – The holiday season is a time for joy and generosity, but it’s also when scammers try to exploit unsuspecting victims.
The Bunnell Police Department is urging residents to stay vigilant and protect themselves from becoming targets of fraud.
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Several recent investigations highlight tactics criminals use and emphasize the importance of caution to ensure your celebrations stay safe.
Here are some schemes used and the outcomes in each case:
Fraudulent Facebook Marketplace transaction
A local resident became the victim of a scam after listing an electric bike for sale on Facebook Marketplace. The buyer paid with an envelope filled with $100 bills labeled as “Play Money.” Flagler County Sheriff’s deputies later spotted the suspect’s car and arrested them. One of the suspects cooperated with the police, which resulted in the recovery and return of the stolen bike.
Bail bond scam
In a more distressing case, a scammer impersonating a bail bondsman falsely claimed the victim’s child had been arrested for a DUI. The victim was coerced into sending $975 via a cash app, followed by demands for additional payments. Sadly the funds were not recovered and the scammer disconnected their phone number leaving limited investigative leads.
Fake warrant scheme
Another scam involved an email claiming the recipient had an arrest warrant (which was fake), followed by a call from a supposed police officer involving payment. Recognizing the deception, the resident reported the incident without making a payment. Although no arrests have been made, the case underscores the importance of verifying such claims before acting.
Tips to avoid becoming a victim
- Verify before you pay: Confirm claims of arrests, fines, or transactions with local law enforcement or relevant agencies. Police will never demand payment to avoid arrest.
- Be cautious of urgent requests: Scammers often use urgency to pressure victims into quick decisions.
- Avoid untraceable payments: Steer clear of cash apps, wire transfers, and prepaid cards for transactions with strangers.
- Examine cash carefully: Check for security features when handling currency during transactions.
- Protect personal information: Share sensitive details only with verified entities.
Additional Safeguards
- The police department invites residents to use its parking lot, equipped with surveillance, for transactions arranged on platforms like Facebook Marketplace.
“If someone isn’t comfortable meeting at the police station, that’s a red flag,” Chief David Brannon explained.
The department can be reached at 386-313-4911 for assistance. - Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity immediately to local law enforcement.