From Staff Reports
MIDLOTHIAN – The Midlothian Police Department recently alerted residents to yet another scam that has been reported at local retail stores.
According to police, individuals have been approaching customers near store entrances explaining they are raising money for travel sport’s teams or tournaments.
The individuals usually show information regarding the claim with a flyer and then ask for donations using cashless payment apps such as Venmo, CashApp, or Apple Pay.
During a recent contact with one of these groups, they admitted they were not affiliated with any team but they still presented the flyers asking for donations.
The Midlothian Police Department reported they were not certain how many people had been approached or given money.
The warning signs associated with this scam includes:
- Individuals stopping customers near store entrances or parking lots
- Claims of fundraising for sports teams without verified affiliation
- Requests for payment through cashless apps
- Generic flyers or lack of official team information
Residents are encouraged to use caution when approached for donations in parking lots or outside of businesses.
As a reminder, legitimate school or youth organizations typically coordinate fundraising through schools, leagues, or verified groups.
If you’re approached in this manner, do not provide payment and notify the store management or contact the Police department’s non-emergency line at 972-775-3333.
