HAWAII COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT
COMMUNITY RELATIONS SECTION
OFFICER DEXTER VERIATO
PHONE: 961-2264
MAY 9, 2001
MEDIA RELEASE
The Hawaii County Police Department is warning residents, especially senior citizens, to be on the lookout for people who represent themselves as being part of a fundraising organization for local police.
Community Relations Officer Dexter Veriato said police have received a number of calls from merchants and the public asking if fundraising activities are legitimate.
“The Hawaii County Police Department does not raise funds,” Veriato said. “It is against regulations for our members to solicit money or gratuities.”
Veriato noted that one person was recently trying to sell phony gift certificates to a popular hotel as a benefit for the Police Auxiliary. There is no such thing as a police auxiliary in Hawaii County, he said, and fortunately, the intended victim got suspicious and called police.
Veriato cautioned residents to check out all calls to purchase something or to donate money to a police activity by calling the Community Relations Section at 961-2264 or the nearest police station.
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