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Two Portland Area Law Enforcement Agencies Warn of Scams

Two Portland Area Law Enforcement Agencies Warn of Scams

Cape Elizabeth Police Department - Scam Alert


The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office is warning about a scam after a resident received a letter threatening seizure of their home over back taxes.

The Sheriff’s Office says the resident received a letter in the mail from an entity called the Federal Tax Authorities informing them that a lien has been filed against their residence for unpaid taxes.

The letter encourages the receiver not to enter, dismantle, or remove anything from their residence.

Deputies say the letter encourages the receiver to call a certain number to pay the back taxes to avoid their residence being seized and possible garnishment from bank accounts.

Officers say no credible institution will demand cash transactions.

Cumberland County deputies say anyone receiving such a letter should contact their financial institution in person or call them at 207-774-1444.

Meanwhile, Cape Elizabeth Police are warning about a scam after a citizen reported being contacted by a caller claiming to be Sergeant Jeff Gaudette of the Cape Elizabeth Police Department.

The caller said the person missed a court date and a warrant had been issued for their arrest, but the matter could be cleared by paying a sum of money.

Cape Elizabeth Police say law enforcement will never call and demand payment or threaten arrest over the phone.

They say anyone receiving such a call should not provide any personal or financial information and should hang up immediately.

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