New Rochelle Police Expose Nationwide Police Charity Scam Tactics in Urgent Resident Alert

NEW ROCHELLE, NY (November 6, 2025) — The New Rochelle Police Benevolent Association warned residents about a growing wave of police impersonation scams, highlighting fake fundraisers mailed from Milwaukee that mirror tactics used by fraudsters across the country.

The PBA’s social media alert, posted two days ago, flagged solicitations for the “Committee for Police Officers’ Defense” with a Milwaukee, Wisconsin return address. Phone calls from the same group are also targeting locals.

“It is NOT from the New Rochelle PBA,” the post stated in all caps. “We will never call to solicit funds over the phone.”

The warning urged residents to “carefully read the information listed on mailers before sending any funds to avoid being scammed.”

Common police scam tactics detailed alongside the alert include fraudsters impersonating officers to demand instant payment for fake warrants or fines through gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers or payment apps. Scammers often spoof caller ID, use real officers’ names, and threaten immediate arrest.

Another widespread tactic involves fake charity drives posing as “police benevolent associations” or “officers’ defense funds.” These groups, often unaffiliated with real departments, spike calls after officer injuries or deaths and pressure donors with specific amounts. Many operate as PACs where most funds go to fundraisers, not the cause.

Scammers rely on fear, urgency and intimidation, claiming delays will lead to arrest or asset seizure. Some send doctored badges or IDs to appear legitimate.

“Real law enforcement never demands payment over the phone, via gift cards, or cryptocurrency for fines or warrants, nor do they solicit donations this way,” the NRPBA emphasized.

Victims are advised to hang up and call the agency directly using numbers from official websites, then report suspicions to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or local police.

This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.