Jackson police warn of potential phone scam
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JACKSON, Tenn. — Jackson police are warning residents about a reported phone scam. They say the alleged scammer is claiming to work with the Jackson Fire Department and asking for donations over the phone. “We are not calling soliciting any funding from any citizens or taxpayers,” said Rico Bryson with the Jackson Fire Department. The department said it was alerted of the scam Tuesday morning by a victim who said the alleged scammer is asking for donations for the fire department’s “Survive Alive House,” a fire survival simulation house they are currently building. Bryson said the program will be completely funded through the city. The “Survive Alive House” was dedicated to JFD May 1 and is expected to open in July. “It will simulate different hazards that we find in our home that we’re not aware of, and we’re bringing citizens and different groups through to help educate them on identifying these hazards within your home,” Bryson said. He said someone taking the positives of the program and turning it into a scam is disheartening. “It really saddened me because this program could be very positive for Jackson and surrounding areas and could bring a heightened awareness of fire and life safety,” Bryson said. Residents agree and hope the alleged scammer isn’t successful. “I think it’s very sad,” resident Diane Scott said. “I think anytime that somebody tries to take a good cause and try to make it their own selfish gain — I think that’s very sad.” Bryson wants to remind residents the Jackson Fire Department does not solicit money from anyone and they should not give out personal information over the phone. The Jackson Police Department is investigating the case. They don’t yet have a suspect or know how many victims were targeted.
