TPSO warns of money scam

The Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office and Parish President Michel Claudet warned citizens Monday of a money scam that is reportedly sweeping through the area.

Sheriff’s Office spokesman Maj. Malcolm Wolfe said that Claudet contacted the TPSO Friday evening in regards to a scam he was informed of by a Terrebonne Parish resident.

Claudet said citizens have informed him that people are soliciting money by using his name, claiming they were working for the “Claudet Campaign Fund”.

Claudet denied such a fund exists, saying that as he did in his first run for parish president, he will not use outside funds in his bid for reelection.

“I don’t take campaign contributions,” Claudet said. “I don’t know who these people are or what they’re trying to do.”

Prior to the parish president informing the TPSO, Wolfe said deputies responded to Bayouside Drive in Chauvin Thursday regarding someone trying to solicit money for the so-called “fund”.

The complainant in that incident informed deputies that the caller didn’t identify herself, but asked if she would like to make a $150 donation to the fund.

In that instance, Wolfe said the victim figured the call was a scam and hung up the phone.

Claudet confirmed those sentiments and told citizens Monday to report any such calls to the TPSO.

“I want to make absolutely certain to people that if they are getting calls like that, it’s a scam some kind of way,” Claudet said. “And truly, I think it’s critical that people know that.”