A reported scam claiming to be raising money on behalf of the families of two fallen policemen has been slammed by police.
Police issued a statement last week saying they had received a report of a scam targeting residents and businesses in the Alpine and Wangaratta regions.
The statement read a conman purported to be a police officer collecting donation packages from $500-$2500 on behalf of the families of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, who were tragically killed in Porepunkah on 26 August.
The statement also read that different levels of business advertisement were offered in return for each donation.
Acting Inspector Mick Drew of Wangaratta police said the scam attempt was nothing short of “reprehensible”.
“We want it denounced in the strongest possible terms,” he said.
“It’s tragic enough what the Thompson, de-Waart-Hottart and the injured third officer’s family members are going through at the moment and the community as well.
“Unfortunately, there’s always an element that will look to take advantage during times of pain, grief loss and suffering.
“We’re very committed to investigating the matter as thoroughly as possible and hopefully identifying any perpetrator and making sure we hold them to account.”
Act Insp Drew said it was too early to tell if one or multiple scammers were at large but the investigation made significant progress since it began last Wednesday.
“One of our strong focuses at this stage is to make the community aware that this activity is going on,” he said.
“We’re not yet aware of how widespread it might be.”
Act Insp Drew said there had been no losses from any local businesses who reported to receive a scam call.
He reiterated to the community the only police recognised and advocated fundraiser for officers and their families was managed through Victoria Police Legacy.
“It’s important for anyone wishing to donate goes through that channel to do so and not at the behest of unknown people who may seek to prey upon their vulnerabilities,” he said.
Act Insp Drew said anyone who received a suspected scam call of this nature should report it to Wangaratta police on (03) 5723 0888 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
They are also strongly encouraged to refrain from making any donations to suspected scam callers.
“We’re doing all we can to try and prevent anyone from falling victim to what is clearly a scam,” he said.
You can donate to Victoria Police Legacy via their website: https://www.policelegacyvic.org.au/support-us/make-a-donation.
Firearms check at Myrtleford home as hunt for alleged police killer continues
A heavy police presence was seen at a Myrtleford property on Friday as the widespread search for alleged police killer Dezi Freeman goes on.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said officers conducted a firearms prohibition order check at the home and no arrests were made.
The latest property search has been among hundreds conducted by police since the killings of policemen Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart on 26 August at Porepunkah.
There have been no confirmed sightings of their alleged killer since the shooting.
More than 2000 police members have been involved throughout the duration of the operation so far which has received support from various international, national and state agencies.
A $1 million reward remains on offer for information leading to Freeman’s arrest.
Previous travel restrictions through Porepunkah were lifted last week as the area remained a no-fly zone over the weekend.
Police advise that if you see Freeman, call 000 immediately but do not approach him as he was still considered heavily armed and dangerous.
Anyone with other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or visit your local police station.
For the most current advice and updates relating to this search, visit https://www.police.vic.gov.au/porepunkah-shooting-and-search-desmond-freeman-filby