Letter from Sheriff Bratton re: Phone Solicitors
It is that time of year again when high-pressure salespeople will be contacting the public by phone to contribute to law enforcement-type organizations. The purpose of their requests may range from donations for vests for canine units to vests for deputies, patrolmen or troopers among other requests.
Please carefully consider any phone solicitation that is received. If you wish to contribute to the organization that contacts you, ask them to send you a packet of information about their organization. Just for fun, ask them for a phone number where you can call them back.
The Buckeye State Sheriffs’ Association is the official recognized organization for the 88 sheriffs throughout Ohio. The only solicitation approved by the sheriffs in the case of Ottawa County is a letter mailed to our residents and signed by me. This takes place once a year. There is no phone solicitation involved whatsoever on behalf of the BSSA. The funds that are received in this way are used for education and training.
In recent days I have been contacted by several individuals in this regard. One caller even used my name. Again I did not authorize this, and I sincerely question the legitimacy of these fly-by-night solicitors. It is very unfortunate that this happens, but this has been going on for years and I am sure will continue. Be cautious in this regard, and if you are considering a contribution, why not call the police chief of your jurisdiction to see if there is a need for financial assistance for any of the local programs.
If there are any questions or comments, please feel free to call me at 419-734-6877.
9/3/2008
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