Police warn of scam attempt

The Marshall Police Department is warning area residents of a new variation of an old scam.

First reported in Marshall Thursday morning, the telephone scam is essentially a version of the Nigerian e-mail scam. The caller identifies himself as a representative of an overseas interest that needs the help of an American to move a large sum of money to a U.S. account.

Officer Mark Gooden said the Marshall woman contacted Thursday was told she could help the man by providing him with a $5,000 check. In exchange, he would pay her $500,000.

Gooden said the telephone number provided by the man, (816) 471-3679, is fictitious and plays a recording telling callers no one is present to answer their call.

Police warn all local residents they should report suspicious calls and not give out personal financial information over the telephone.

Contact Chris Post at

marshallhealth@socket.net