Laguna police warn about phony solicitors

Laguna Beach issued a notice to the public Friday, warning them about a potential phony solicitor pretending to be the Laguna Beach Police Assn.

According to Lt. Jason Kravetz, a nail salon on Mountain Road and Coast Highway reported that it received a call from a group calling itself the Laguna Beach Police Assn. Kravetz said the business owner was suspicious and did not donate.

Kravetz noted that the police association in Laguna Beach only contacts via mail, not telephone.

The police department has compiled a flier with tips on ways to protect businesses and residents from suspicious solicitors.

The suggestions include: ask for the charity’s full name and address and inquire as to whether it is tax deductible; ask the caller’s relationship to the organization and for identification if in-person; don’t feel pressured to commit and ask for additional materials to make an informed decision; never give out personal information such as a social security number or credit card number; ask to contact the organization directly and donate; and keep records of all donations.

For more information, contact police at (949) 497-070.

— Joanna Clay

Twitter: @joannaclay