The Biddeford Police Department is warning local residents of a police impersonation scam.
An unknown source has “spoofed” the Biddeford Police Department phone number and is making calls to Maine residents that appear on caller identification systems to come from the Biddeford Police Department’s main phone line. The unknown male caller identifies himself as a Sergeant with the Biddeford Police Department and claims to have a warrant out for the victim’s arrest. The scammer makes a demand for a substantial amount of money via gift cards, cashier check, or bitcoin.
“The Biddeford Police Department would never call you and demand cash payment to prevent your arrest,” said Deputy Police Chief JoAnne Fisk. “If you receive a call from anyone claiming to represent law enforcement that seems threatening or out of the ordinary, please report it to your local Police Department.”
The scammer has previously claimed to be Biddeford Police Department Sgt. Philip Greenwood, but may identify himself by another name in future calls.