Florence Police Warn of Puppy Scam

The Florence Police Department has begun receiving complaints of online scams involving the sale of pure breed puppies from various suppliers in several states.

The websites offering these pets look legitimate at first glance. The scammers say they will accept payment in the form of a money order or wire transfer. Once a payment is sent the buyer then receives harassing phone calls from a “shipper” demanding more money. The “shipper” then threatens the caller with criminal charges for abandonment if they do not send more money. This is a scam. Be wary of any online transaction to an individual who asks for payment via money order or wire transfer. A quick google search will most likely reveal numerous complaints of fraud. Report any suspected fraud to your local police department and to IC3.gov.