Franklin Co. Sheriff's Department Investigating Fraudulent Check & Money Order Scam

Friday, August 12, 2022 at 10:21 AM

By Franklin County Sheriff's Department, news release

Several incidents have been reported, including the sale of vehicles.

Shutterstock photo.

(Brookville, Ind.) - Franklin County Sheriff’s Deputies would like to warn citizens of possible fraudulent transactions taking place through online sales of merchandise.

Deputies are investigating several incidents of items, including vehicles, being purchased with the use of fraudulent money orders, cashier’s checks, and personal checks.

“These checks and money orders look like the real thing,” said Franklin County Sheriff’s Department Major Greg Mehlbauer. “Sellers can always contact their bank to verify that the check or money order is legit. Or, the seller can also contact the financial institution issuing the check or money order to verify its authenticity,” continued Mehlbauer.

In some incidents, Deputies have discovered that the buyers are insistent upon completing the sales on weekends, when banks are not open. Deputies encourage citizens to complete large transactions, and not sign over vehicle titles, until the funds can be verified.

Citizens who have been victims of similar scams are asked to report the fraud to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department at 765-647-4138.

More from Local News

Events

Groundbreaking Held at Short Street Pavilion Site

The open-air structure is planned to be completed later this year.

North Vernon Man Facing Drug Charges in Dearborn Co. After Traffic Stop

Police allegedly seized 29 grams of fentanyl.

USPS to Host Job Fairs in Osgood, Versailles

Open positions pay up to $20.38 per hour.

Bill Brinkman to Receive Outstanding Official Award

Brinkman is in his 35th year as an official.

Seven Earn Academic All-State Honors from ICGSA

To be eligible, student-athletes have to have a GPA of 3.5 or higher.

Craig, Henry Named to HBCA East All-Star Team

Two Ohio River Valley Conference stars will team at the HBCA East/West All-Star Classic. 

On Air

Your Hometown Radio Station playing
Johnny Paycheck - Slide Off of Your Satin Sheets

Sam Hunt Country House 2:52
Morgan Wallen 7 Summers 2:46
Lonestar Amazed 2:42
Granger Smith Backroad Song 2:38