The September 11th attack
Navy, HPD warn against several fund-raiser scams

Advertiser Staff

Navy officials have broadcast a "fraudulent scam alert" warning of a scheme to get credit card numbers for a phony fund-raiser.

A caller told the spouse of a local active-duty sailor that money was being raised for the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, and asked for a credit card number. Instead, the call was reported to authorities, the Navy said.

The Navy Marine Corps Relief Society is a legitimate charitable organization, said Lt. Commander Jane Campbell, a Navy public affairs officer, but it does not solicit contributions by phone.

The Department of Defense suggests that anyone considering donations contact the Navy & Marine Corps Relief Society Pentagon Assistance Fund, (703) 696-4904; and the Army Emergency Relief Society Pentagon Victims Fund, (703) 325-0463.

The Honolulu Police Department is also warning residents to be on the lookout for attempts to take advantage of the tragedy in New York.

Two men were arrested and faced felony theft charges last week after they allegedly attempted to solicit donations for a bogus charity for World Trade Center victims.

Anyone receiving similar solicitations is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 955-8300.