DETROIT --
Detroit fire officials are warning residents to be aware of imposter fire prevention inspectors who are trying to solicit money from businesses.
The warning comes after an imposter or a group of imposters asked a Detroit business to donate to the Detroit Fire Department.
Investigators said the imposter, who was wearing a firefighter uniform and had a badge, was able to get a hold of a real Fire Marshal invoice and got a business to donate $106. The scam artist then changed the invoice and cashed it in for $806.
The imposters also targeted another business in the summer, police said.
The imposters claim to be with the Detroit Fire Department or the Detroit Fire Marshal Division Fire Prevention and ask for money, police said.
Detroit Executive Fire Commissioner Tyrone Scott and Fire Marshal Charlie Pritchett said the Detroit Fire Department or fire prevention inspectors would never solicit businesses; they do not accept cash or checks in person for services rendered and all on-duty fire personnel will be in uniform and will have a picture ID with them.
If someone makes an unscheduled appearance at your business or residence and claims to be an inspector with the Detroit Fire Department, call 911 or 313-596-2954 to verify the person's employment.
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