[StBernard] St. Bernard deputies warn residents to be wary of telephone scam

[Westley Annis]

St. Bernard deputies warn residents to be wary of telephone scam
by The Times-Picayune 
Tuesday February 03, 2009, 10:12 AM
St. Bernard Parish law enforcement authorities are warning residents to be
on the lookout for a telephone scam.

The Sheriff''s Office said that several residents have reported being called
by people who tell them they've won a monetary prize and new vehicle, but
must send a $150 "delivery fee'' before being able to collect the prize.

"If something sounds too good to be true, then it's not true,'' said Chief
Deputy James Pohlmann.

While the Sheriff's Office has received three reports of the scam, it said
no one has reported falling for it and sending any money.

In the latest attempt, a Chalmette resident reported being called Jan. 31 by
a woman who said she represented the Carlene James Co. in Jamaica. The woman
said the resident had won $1 million and a vehicle, but had to send $150
before being able to claim it. The resident said he would have to discuss it
with his wife, but the caller called him back several times trying to push
for the money.