HANAHAN, S.C.–According to Hanahan Police Chief Dennis Turner, his department has received information from citizens about a scam operation circulating throughout the community.
Some citizens have reportedly told police they have received telephone calls from the Internal Revenue Service stating that they owe money and the IRS will arrest them if they do not pay immediately.
The caller then instructs that the money must be wired, usually via Western Union, and they provide an account number.
“I have spoken with the Internal Revenue Service and this is not how they do business,” stated Turner. “If someone owes money because of taxes, the IRS will send a letter or call and request that you contact their local office to set up a tax appointment. You then go through the audit process before money has to be paid. Simply, the IRS will not call and use the threat of criminal prosecution to coerce someone into sending them money.”
According to Turner, these phone calls are scams, and he’s encouraging people to not fall victim to them.
“I know these callers can become very persistent and aggressive; but, it is a scam,” stressed Turner. “If they call you, feel free to tell them you will pay them in person if they meet you at the local IRS office. They will probably hang up and never call back. I am especially concerned for our elderly residents because the elderly are often the main targets of these unsavory people.”
Turner asks that if at anytime Hanahan citizens think someone might be trying to scam them, please contact the police department.
