Shreveport Police Department

www.ci.shreveport.la.us/dept/police/spdnews

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: sept. 26, 2001

Contact: Kacee Hargrave, Public Information Officer

Pigeon drop cases on the rise

Residents need to be aware of a man who tries to take their money using a scam called a pigeon drop.

A pigeon drop occurs when a suspect asks the victim to give him money in exchange for more money to the victim as a reward for helping the suspect.

Police know of a handful of such scams that have occurred recently, including a failed attempt that occurred today. Many times, the suspect is a black male with an accent.

Detectives say the suspect searches a public location, such as a grocery or department store, looking for a person who looks trusting or easily intimidated. When such a person gets out of their car, the suspect walks up and asks for assistance.

Each excuse is slightly different, but successful attempts end up with victim being left without their money.

Anyone with information about such scams is asked to call the Shreveport Police Department immediately. Anyone who have been a victim of a pigeon drop recently is asked to report it.

To report a scam, call 673-7300 and ask for an operator. To talk to the financial crimes division, call 673-6985.

- spd -

Media: Sgt. Kim Price will be available for interviews until 4 p.m. today.