Scammers Pretending To Be Cleveland Heights Police

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — Con artists are posing as members of the Cleveland Heights Police Department to scam residents out of their money and personal information.

Police Chief Annette Mecklenburg said several residents have been contacted by people claiming to be law enforcement. The con artists then direct the residents to call a number about an "urgent legal" matter.

These calls are not coming from Cleveland Heights police.

"CHPD would never call or email any resident with instructions to call an unknown number," Mecklenburg said.

City officials are especially concerned that senior residents may be vulnerable to these scams.

The scam has also extended into neighboring communities. Residents in other cities have been receiving calls from people claiming to be with Cleveland Heights police. These neighboring residents are told they have an outstanding warrant and must pay immediately.

"CHPD would not take this tactic. Please BEWARE and be CAUTIOUS. If in doubt you can reach out directly to CHPD at 216-321-1234. Please pass the word to any neighbors who may not be on NextDoor or other social media," Mecklenburg said.

Police also encourage anyone who feels they may have been the victim of a scam to contact the Cuyahoga County Scam Squad at 216-443-7226. They are currently tracking robocalls, arrest scams and romance scans.