December 17, 2003

East Lansing - The Michigan State Police is warning citizens about a disturbing new scam that involves telephone callers who identify themselves as MSP personnel.

In this scam, the victim is contacted via telephone by an individual claiming to be a law enforcement officer or dispatcher. The pretend officer/dispatcher informs the victim that a family member (who they name) has been involved in a serious traffic crash and needs to be transported to a hospital for immediate emergency care. A second con artist claiming to represent the medical transport company then contacts the victim and informs them that payment must be received in advance. The victim is directed to wire a significant amount of money to a third individual before their loved one can be transported.

The Michigan State Police remind citizens that it is MSP policy to notify next of kin in person, if at all possible, in the case of a fatal or potentially fatal accident. If the next of kin resides out of state, a local law enforcement agency may be used to relay the message.

Additionally, you will never be asked for payment prior to emergency transportation. The cost of transferring a patient is handled by the receiving hospital, the transport company and your health insurance provider. Please contact your health insurance provider for more information on your coverage. When making payment for medical services, please take note of the billing company. Do not send money to an unknown individual or company.

If you receive a suspicious telephone call from someone claiming to represent the State Police, please contact your local State Police post for confirmation.