Police warn of scams tied to Ogden shootings

OGDEN — Police are warning residents not to fall victim to con artists trying to profit off of the death of Ogden police officer Jared Francom.

Recently, police learned of a family who was contacted by a man claiming to be from the Fraternal Order of Police. He claimed to be collecting donations for the family of the slain officer.

The family, who happened to be related to a police officer, told the man they weren't going to donate any money over the phone or Internet and told him if he really wanted it, he'd have to come out to their house, said Ogden Police Lt. Eric Young.

The man did come to the house. But when the family asked for ID, he turned around and left, Young said.

Police want the public to know that while there are legitimate groups conducting fundraisers for Francom's family, none of them involve solicitations over the phone.

"It's unfortunate, but it doesn't surprise us," Young said of the effort by someone to take advantage of a tragedy for their own personal gain.

All Bank of Utah locations have accounts set up to accept donations for Francom and the other five officers who were shot during the Jan. 4 incident. Several restaurants have also been holding fundraisers.

— Pat Reavy Twitter: DNewsCrimeTeam