Date of Release: January 5, 2016
From September 14th through September 24th, 2015, the Federal law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) collaborated with the National Sheriff's Association (NSA) to pilot the inaugural Homeland Security Leadership Academy at the FLETC headquarters in Glynco Georgia. Lieutenant Don Hollingshead of the Laramie County Sheriff's Department was one of only twenty-five (25) law enforcement officers from around our country selected to attend this first of its kind training. According to FLETC Director Connie Patrick, FLETC and the NSA partnered to facilitate a better relationship with the Department of Homeland Security and to continue "the development of state and local law enforcement leaders". The Homeland Security Leadership Academy provided participants not only with courses on crisis management, leadership, and terrorism awareness, but also gave participants the opportunity to engage their fellow senior law enforcement leaders from across the country. Topics discussed included timely matters such as mental health issues, public perception of police and community safety.
Date of release: December 4, 2015
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office has been made aware of a phone scam that is going around. A person representing themselves as an employee with the Laramie County Sheriff's Office has been calling citizens. Some of the scammers have been using actual Deputy's names. Some have even "spoofed" their phone numbers to show up on your caller ID as the Laramie County Sheriff's Office. They inform the person that they have a warrant for their arrest, due to a failure to show up on a jury summons. The person is instructed to buy a prepaid credit card to pay the fines or they would be arrested. The scammers ask for the credit card numbers to be given to them over the phone. The Laramie County Sheriff's Office will never ask you to buy a prepaid card and will not request credit card information over the phone. If you receive one of these calls, do not give the person any personal or credit card information. If you have any questions please call 633-4700 or 637-6524 to speak with a Deputy.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release for the Laramie County Sheriff's Office is Captain Linda Gesell (307) 633-4735.
Date of Release: February 9, 2015
On Sunday, February 8, 2015 Laramie County Sheriff's Department Deputies responded to 200 Waltersheid Blvd regarding a missing child. Deputies interviewed the parent of the child, David Kinseley, and it was learned the 8 year old child was part of the "Project Lifesaver Program." The mother and brother of the missing child said they last saw the 8 year old walking south through a field close to 200 Walterscheid.
According to the Weather Channel the temperature at the time of the call was approximately 33 degrees. The searchers began their search in the 200 block of Waltersheid. The searchers were using hand held receivers. A strong signal was received near the property the child was reported missing from. Deputies found the child hiding under a horse trailer that was located approximately 100 feet from the house. The child was wearing a brown coat and blue jeans.
Deputies last responded to this address on 1-29-15 when the child was located in the 200 block of Derr Ave.
Deputies received the call at approximately 2015 hours. The parents spent some time looking for the child prior to calling law enforcement. Deputies using the Project Life Saver receivers arrived on scene at 2110 hours and the child was located at approximately 2120 hrs.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release for the Laramie County Sheriff's Department is Capt. Linda Gesell (307) 633-4735.
Date of Release: January 30, 2015
On Thursday, January 29, 2015 Laramie County Sheriff's Department Deputies responded to the 200 block of Waltersheid Blvd regarding a missing child. Deputies interviewed the parents of the child, David and Tommie Kinseley, and it was learned the 7 year old child was part of the "Project Lifesaver Program."
According to the Weather Channel the temperature at the time of the call was in the 30 degree range but felt like 20 degrees. The searchers began their search in the 200 block of Waltersheid. The searchers were using hand held receivers. A strong signal was received in the 200 block of Derr Ave. A search of the area found the child in the southeast corner of a yard in the 200 block of Derr on the ground by a trampoline. The child was located at approximately 2017 hrs. The child was unharmed but cold.
Total time from the beginning to end of the call was 44 minutes. Total search time for the child was 18 minutes. The child was wearing blue jeans and a dark green Carhart jacket. The child was possibly upset and that is why he left the residence.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release for the Laramie County Sheriffs Department is Capt. Linda Gesell (307) 633-4735.
Date of Release: June 18, 2014
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office wants to warn you about scam artists sending out real looking checks in an attempt to get you to send money! Here's how the Fake Check scam works. Scam artists send you an official looking letter claiming to be Mega Millions. The letter illegally uses Publishers Clearing House in an attempt to build trust. (These offers are not affiliated in any way with Publishers Clearing House!) The letter encloses a real looking check that may appear legitimate. Even your bank may be fooled. The letter will inform you that you are the third place prize winner in the Ten Million ($10,000,000.00) prize draw sponsored by Publishers Clearing House and Readers Digest, and the Mega Millions Jackpot. The letter states that the total amount you have won for the third place category is one million five-hundred thousand dollars ($1,5000,000.00).
You will be informed that enclosed is a check for $5,840.73 to help pay processing, Attorney, Insurance, shipping and handling fees. You will be instructed to immediately contact a representative that has been assigned to assist you.
Even though the check is bogus, if you deposit the check, the money may be available to you for a short time. Under federal law, banks make the funds you deposit available quickly, usually within one to five days, depending on the type of check. But just because you can withdraw the money doesn't mean the check is good. It can take weeks for the forgery to be discovered and the check to bounce. And that's what the scam artists are counting on. They hope that if you believe the check is real you'll be willing to send them money back.
The scammer may tell you that you were given an advance on a sweepstakes prize and that some fee, tax or additional payment is necessary. You may be told you are being paid the first installment on millions and that you will receive more after wiring a portion back. Whatever the set-up in the scam offers, the results are the same. If you send money back you'll be out twice. YOU are responsible for checks or monies deposited into your account. When a check or money order bounces YOU will owe the bank the money you withdrew and the scammer will have the additional money sent in his/her pocket!
Point of Contact for further information is Gerry Luce at the Laramie County Sheriff's Office (307) 633-4725.
Authority for release: Lt. Don Hollingshead
May 5, 2014
Wyoming Fallen Officer Memoriam and Procession twelve o'clock Saturday May 10th at the Wyoming State Capitol.
Date of Release: April 24, 2014
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office will be at three locations this coming Saturday (April 26th) from 10:00AM through 2:00PM to take back any unwanted, unused, prescription, or, over the counter drugs. The Sheriff's Office will join other local law enforcement agencies in continuing this successful program at three additional locations for county residents.
The three locations are Town and Country Pharmacy at 514 South Greeley Highway, Laramie County Fire District #2 at 5800 North College, and the Pine Bluffs Town Hall at 200 Main Street.
This Sheriff's Office has taken in over 750 pounds of unused and unwanted prescription drugs since the program inception. The purpose of these Drug Take Back Day's is to allow citizens to safely dispose of unused or unwanted prescription drugs in an environmentally safe manner and keep those drugs out of the hands of unauthorized persons or juveniles.
Drugs that have been taken in have ranged from over the counter drugs to narcotic prescription pills and liquids.
Once again, no illegal drugs, sharps, thermometers, oxygen containers, radioactive materials, pressurized containers, or chemotherapy drugs will be accepted.
For further information you can contact Lieutenant Kevin James at (307) 633-4773.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release for the Laramie County Sheriff's Office is Gerry Luce (307) 633-4725 or Lieutenant Kevin James at (307) 633-4773.
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office - Local and state law enforcement officers will work together to stop impaired driving on Super Bowl Sunday.
Sheriff Danny Glick advises that "before choosing to drink, choose a sober designated driver." "Drunk driving is always preventable, and driving drunk could result in serious injury, your death or the death of someone else. Expect city, county and state law enforcement to have a visible presence and to stop anyone who drinks and drives."
The Super Bowl brings families, friends and fans together each year to enjoy the excitement of the big game. These gatherings should end safely, not with tragedy.
Law enforcement and the Wyoming Governor's Council on Impaired Driving are working to spread this message to the public. Designate a sober driver on Super Bowl Sunday: Fans Don't Let Fans Drive Drunk.
Last year in Wyoming, there were 848 alcohol related crashes resulting in 31 fatalities. "As we all know, the loss of even one life to this most preventable crime is too many," said Governor Matt Mead. "I ask you to join me in saving the lives of your friends, family and other innocent Wyoming citizens, by participating in and supporting these and future programs to stop impaired driving in our state."
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2011, 9,878 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes nationwide. Drunk driving fatalities accounted for 31 percent of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities in the United States.
So remember on this Super Bowl Sunday: Fans Don't Let Fans Drive Drunk.
By Robert Duffer, Chicago Tribune
With winter arriving in full force early in the season, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has released a thorough checklist of how to prepare for and navigate through winter driving conditions. With the third snowstorm of the season hitting the midwest, we narrow the list to some key pointers.
Carry items in your vehicle to handle common winter driving related tasks:
Snow shovel, broom, and ice scraper.
Abrasive material such as sand or kitty litter, in case your vehicle gets stuck in the snow.
Jumper cables, flashlight, and warning devices such as flares and emergency markers.
Blankets for protection from the cold.
And a cell phone with charger, water, food, and any necessary medicine (for longer trips or when driving in lightly populated areas).
Check your battery:
For gasoline or diesel engines, be aware that it takes more battery power to start your vehicle in cold weather than in warm weather.
Make sure the battery cable connections are not loose.
Have a mechanic check the battery power, charging system and belts.
For electric or hybrid-electric vehicles, several things can be done to minimize the drain on the batteries. If the vehicle has a thermal heating pack for the batteries, make sure your vehicle is plugged in whenever it is not in use. If the vehicle has a pre-heat function to warm the car interior, set it to warm the passenger compartment before you unplug it in the morning.
Check/add coolant.
Check/add windshield washer fluid.
Check windshield wipers and consider buying heavy-duty winter wipers. Wipers are fairly straightforward to change and can take less than 10 minutes to swap out.
Check your floor mats. Make sure the driver-side mats haven't slid under the pedals. If there are hooks to anchor the mats, make sure the mats are in place.
Check your tires. You can find the correct pressure for your tires listed on the label inside the driver's doorframe or in the vehicle owner's manual. The correct pressure is NOT the number listed on the tire. Also, check to make sure the tread is sufficient with no uneven wear, and that the rubber is in good overall condition. Note that tire rubber starts to degrade after several years, and older tires may need to be replaced even if they have not seen much wear.
Check your spare tire.
Before moving your car, clean snow, ice or dirt from the windows, the forward sensors, headlights, tail lights and backup camera.
Familiarize yourself with directions and maps before you go, even if you use a GPS system, and let others know your route and anticipated arrival time.
Drive slowly. It's harder to control or stop your vehicle on a slick or snow-covered surface. On the road, increase your following distance enough so that you'll have plenty of time to stop for vehicles ahead of you.
A word of caution about braking: Know what kind of brakes your vehicle has and how to use them properly. In general, if you have antilock brakes, apply firm, continuous pressure. If you don't have antilock brakes, pump the brakes gently.
If you find yourself in a skid, stay calm and ease your foot off the gas while carefully steering in the direction you want the front of your vehicle to go. This steering maneuver may require additional counter-steering before you can regain full control of the vehicle. Continue to stay off the pedals (gas and brake) until you are able to regain control of your vehicle.
Stay focused; stow the phone.
Stay with your car and don't overexert yourself
Put bright markers on the antenna or windows and keep the interior dome light turned on.
To avoid asphyxiation from carbon monoxide poisoning, don't run your car for long periods of time with the windows up or in an enclosed space. If you must run your vehicle, clear the exhaust pipe of any snow and run it only sporadically, just long enough to stay warm.
by Frank Catalano
On its face, it was totally unbelievable. After all, when was the last time you recall any tech support pro-actively contacting you to solve a problem?
Advanced Windows"support" technology.
"Hello, sir. I am calling from Windows support."
So began the call at 3:36pm PDT on June 12. It was as if an automated phone tree at a software company had decided to atone for its sins and reach out. And I do mean automated. The patter, though delivered by apparently real humans with apparently authentic Indian accents, was remarkably rote.
"I'm calling on behalf of Microsoft's Certified Technician Team," said 8:53am July 3. So did 11:46am the same day. But 8:58pm May 15 called from "the technical services department of Windows." And the first one, six weeks earlier at 6:02pm May 14, declared,"I am with the Windows Service Center, and I am calling about your computer."
And boy, were they calling from exotic locations:"V5152358030054,""6752 6752" and just simply"6752," or so blurted my confused Caller ID screen. I thought I knew all the new area codes.
Then began the support."You are getting errors on your computer and I'm calling to help." What errors?, I'd often ask."I won't know until you go to our website and download our diagnostic tool." Download. Unknown. Software. Sure.
While the patter would vary from male to female to male caller, the pitch never did. You're reading from a script, I'd challenge."No sir, I am not reading from a script," 3:36pm June 12 protested. And then went right back to the script. But, like testing the limits of Siri (or, more appropriately here, Furby), it became mildly interesting to see what kind of answers I could elicit:
How did you know I was getting errors? "We have a database of phone numbers of people who purchase computers." (Those used to be called "phone books.")
How do you know I'm not using a Mac or an Atari 1040ST?"We can check. Please click on your Start button."
I can't have a virus; I use the free and excellent Microsoft Security Essentials."Well sir, that is better than using nothing."
Expecting answers that were better than nothing, I turned to the real Microsoft.
"In 2010, Microsoft began receiving reports of scammers making phone calls or sending emails to people," replied a spokesperson for Microsoft's Digital Crimes Unit. The goal was often to trick people into buying support services, downloading fake security software or allowing remote access to their PC for likely un-nice purposes. Microsoft has referred the cases to the Federal Trade Commission, which had its own investigation underway and presumably still does.
The real Microsoft.
And yes, it's no coincidence I'm getting a lot of these calls. A lot of people are. Almost paradoxically, the spokesperson noted, as more consumers learn from Microsoft and other tech firms that they should make their computers more secure,"we have seen an increase in cybercrimes that use deception and social engineering to exploit people."
That doesn't stop some would-be victims from attempting to reverse-engineer the favor. Eric Dawes, a former broadcasting colleague in the Seattle area wrote on Facebook he's been getting similar calls. He decided to play along, clicking as directed until he informed the scripted caller that he only had a choice of running "Control Panel" or "PHK-U.EXE."
Others have been less kind, and a few have tripped into their own trap, such as the anti-malware security researcher who, in trying to documents the details, had his computer's files deleted by a vengeful scammer.
The sobering part is enough people must be scammed successfully, otherwise the trickle of calls wouldn't have increased to a seeming flood over the past several years. This includes, recently, calls to the Puget Sound area (unless the scriptoids have only now realized Microsoft is actually based nearby). Average loss? A Microsoft study pegged it at $875, and that was two years ago.
The next time the phone rings, I'll recall the advice from my father who, in a moment of cynicism about business, observed that,"When someone approaches you, remember they always want something." And in this case, I don't think it's my faux virus. Unless it's infected my wallet.
strategistthe archive his regular GeekWire columns. He's writing his own script, not for Hollywood, but in advance of the next inevitable call.
On December 19, 2013, Lieutenant Doug Hanson from the Salvation Army presented Sheriff Danny Glick with a plaque; recognizing the Laramie County Sheriff's Office for their outstanding support of the Salvation Army's work and ministry.
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office and employees are pleased to donate food, treats, and animal beds to the Cheyenne Animal Shelter again this Christmas Season.
Deputy Don Heiduck of the Sheriffs' Office spearheaded a drive to gather donations of food, treats, and animal beds from employees again this year, and the employees responded very generously.
Anyone interested in making donations to the Cheyenne Animal Shelter should contact Director Bob Fecht at 632-6655.
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office and employees are pleased to donate Clothing and Quilts to NEEDS Inc. again this Christmas Season.
Deputy Don Heiduck, and Administration Secretary Rae Morgan of the Sheriffs' Office spearheaded a drive to gather donations of clothing from employees again this year. Along with the clothing were quilts made by inmates of the Laramie County Detention Center as their way of giving back to the community.
Donations also included a cash donation from Sheriff's Office employee Mary Aragon who volunteers to wrap Christmas presents at the Boot Barn located across from the Mall on Del Range Blvd for cash donations for NEEDS Anyone interested in making donations to NEEDS should contact Director Barb Fecht at 632-4132.
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office is pleased to announce that for the twentieth year they were able to donate bicycles to the Salvation Army to be given as Christmas gifts Carrie Brown of the Sheriff's Office obtained the necessary paperwork from the Laramie County Attorney in order to have the bicycles donated to "Operation Happy Christmas."
In years past, unclaimed bicycles found by Sheriff's deputies were sold at auction. Feeling that needy children were excluded by this process The Sheriff's Office explored the idea of donating bicycles to the Salvation Army's Operation Happy Christmas." The donated bicycles were presented to the Salvation Army at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday December 19, 2013. This year, in addition to the unclaimed bicycles, a number of employees, their families and friends, also brought in bicycles for the donation during the holiday season. Anyone interested in making donations to this Christmas program should contact the Salvation Army at 634-2769.
Date of Release: October 23, 2013.
The Laramie County Sheriff's Department will be at three locations this coming Saturday (October 26th) from 10:00AM through 2:00PM to take back any un-wanted, unused, prescription, or over the counter drugs. The Sheriff's Department will join others in continuing this successful program.
The three locations are Town and Country Pharmacy at 514 South Greeley Highway, Laramie County Fire District #2 at 5800 North College, and the Pine Bluffs Town Hall at 200 Main Street.
This Sheriff's Department has taken in over 700 pounds of unused and unwanted prescription drugs since the program inception. The purpose of these Drug Take Back Day's is to allow citizens to safely dispose of unused or unwanted prescription drugs in an environmentally safe manner and keep those drugs out of the hands of unauthorized persons or juveniles.
Drugs that have been taken in have ranged from over the counter drugs to narcotic prescription pills and liquids.
Once again, no illegal drugs, sharps, thermometers, oxygen containers, radioactive materials, pressurized containers, or chemotherapy drugs will be accepted.
For further information you can contact Lieutenant Kevin James at (307) 633-4773.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release for the Laramie County Sheriff's Department is Gerry Luce (307) 633-4725 or Lieutenant Kevin James at (307) 633-4773.
October 8, 2013
School has started, Halloween is on the way, and this month is the anniversary of the child abduction in Cody, Wyoming. The thought of your child being abducted or violated may leave you frightened and unsure about the best way to protect them. The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, the Casper Police Department, the Cheyenne Police Department, the Natrona County Sheriff's Office, and the Laramie County Sheriff's Office would like to share some recommendations from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children for keeping your children safer:
* Instruct your children to always take a friend when going places and stay with a group while attending outings and/or standing at the bus stop.
* Teach your children the appropriate steps to take if approached or followed. As an example, if your child is grabbed, tell your child to draw attention to himself and yelling,"This person is not my father/mother". Instruct your child to make every effort to escape by walking, running, pulling away, kicking, yelling, and/or otherwise resisting.
* Practice basic safety skills with your children. Make sure they understand the safety messages and are able to use them in real life situations. Make sure you have"safety nets", the plans and people put in place to contact so your children know there is always someone available to help them.
* Be involved in your children's activities. An active participant will have a better opportunity to observe how the adults interact with your children. If you are concerned about anyone's behavior, discuss your concerns with the school, sponsoring organization, or law enforcement.
* Remember never leave children unattended in a vehicle, running or not
* Know where your children are and whom they are with at all times.
* Know your childcare providers, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and employees. Check references. For access to sex offender registries, please visit the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website at www.nsop w.gov and/or the Wyoming Sex Offender Registry at http://wysors.dci.wyo .gov/sor/ .
* Teach your children to stay alert for any suspicious incidents and report anything unusual to you, their school, and law enforcement
Wyoming Criminal Intelligence Analysis Center
208 S. College Drive
Cheyenne, WY 82002
Phone: 307-777-7181
Fax: 307-777-7252
Date of Release: September 23, 2013
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office has been made aware of a scam that is using a cloned Department phone number showing up on caller ID and threats of arrest if individuals do not"pay a fine" for some unspecified violation by a set time on a set day.
The Sheriff's Office received a report from a citizen who had a call from a cloned number that showed up on caller ID as a valid Sheriff's Office phone number. The individual identified themselves as a Deputy Sheriff using an invalid badge number and name. They then told the person that unless they paid a specified fine, to them, that they owed by 5PM that day, there would be a warrant issued and they would be arrested. The individual received two phone calls but hung up on both calls.
The individual used a badge number with an"SI" prefix. This is not valid for any law enforcement agencies in this area.
The Sheriff's Office is advising anyone who may receive a call similar to this (regarding a warrant) can contact the Warrants Division (307- 633-4732) to verify any questions about validity of a warrant.
If an individual were to receive a call about a valid warrant from the Sheriff's Office, a warrant has already been filed and issued through the Courts. And, if there is a fine involved it would be paid directly to the Courts and not any law enforcement officer.
Additionally, you can also contact the Attorney General's Office Consumer Protection to report any calls like this, or the Laramie County Sheriff's Department at (307) 633-4700.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release is Gerry Luce at the Laramie County Sheriff's Office (307) 633-4725
Authority for Release is Captain Gesell
Celebrate 'Independence' from Drunk Driving This July 4th
Laramie County, WY. The Fourth of July may be America's iconic holiday, but all too often the revelry ends in tragedy on the highways due to drunk driving.
Sheriff Danny Glick urges everyone in Laramie County to celebrate this Independence Day with a pledge to keep Wyoming "independent" from drunk driving.
"The Fourth may be one of the nation's most popular holidays, but, unfortunately, it's also one of the most dangerous in terms of alcohol-related fatalities," Sheriff Glick said. "Too many people in Laramie County think they can get behind the wheel because they've only had a few drinks and just have a 'buzz' on. The truth is you don't have to be falling down drunk to be a menace to yourself and everyone around you on the highways.
Sheriff Glick recommends these simple tips for a safe Fourth of July:
* Plan a safe way home before the fun begins;
* Before drinking, designate a sober driver;
* If you're impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member;
* If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don't hesitate to contact Law Enforcement;
* And remember, Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving. If you know people who are about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.
More information on avoiding impaired driving can be found at www.nhtsa.gov/StopImpairedDriving.
May 2, 2013
Date of Release: April 23, 2013
Wyoming Fallen Officer Memoriam and Procession twelve o'clock Saturday May 11th at the Wyoming State Capitol.
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office will be at three locations this coming Saturday (April 27th) from 10:00AM through 2:00PM to take back any un-wanted, unused, prescription, or over the counter drugs. The Sheriff's Office will join others in continuing this successful program.
The three locations are Town and Country Pharmacy at 514 South Greeley Highway, Laramie County Fire District #2 at 5800 North College, and the Pine Bluffs Town Hall at 200 Main Street.
This Sheriff's Office has taken in over 500 pounds of unused and unwanted prescription drugs since the program inception. The purpose of these Drug Take Back Day's is to allow citizens to safely dispose of unused or unwanted prescription drugs in an environmentally safe manner and keep those drugs out of the hands of unauthorized persons or juveniles.
Drugs that have been taken in have ranged from over the counter drugs to narcotic prescription pills and liquids.
Once again, no illegal drugs, sharps, thermometers, oxygen containers, radioactive materials, pressurized containers, or chemotherapy drugs will be accepted.
For further information you can contact Lieutenant Don Hollingshead at (307) 633-4736.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release for the Laramie County Sheriff's Office is Gerry Luce (307) 633-4725 or Lieutenant Don Hollingshead at (307) 633-4736.
March 28, 2013
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office is providing a warning to the public against an ongoing scheme involving non-existent tax liens. The public needs to be aware that you may receive a telephone call from an individual stating that the state of Wyoming had placed a lien on your social security number and that for 40% of the amount of the lien, they could "clear" it for you.
According to the IRS, there is also a tax scam going around taxpayers that supposedly helps them settle false or non-existent tax liens by paying money to avoid IRS action. This latest scam is spread by mail and comes in the form of an IRS Notice of Tax Lien that looks genuine. The scam claims you can have your lien settled by paying money to clear unpaid back taxes and thus avoid IRS enforcement action. There is also a bogus toll-free number that accompanies the tax lien but if you try to call it, it does not connect you to the IRS at all.
This scam first reared its ugly head in Franklin County, North Georgia and generally targets unsuspecting taxpayers such as the elderly or students, who normally do not have any filing requirements and in no way owe the IRS what is purported in the bogus tax lien. Some unfortunate taxpayers have been duped by the scam into paying more than $5,000 to "settle their outstanding tax debt and have their lien lifted".
IRS spokesman Mark S. Green told the story of one elderly taxpayer in Franklin County who received a bogus document in the mail recently supposedly saying he owes the IRS $50,000 in back taxes. However, the letter went on to say he could settle the outstanding taxes by paying $5,000. But in this particular case, Green said that the taxpayer doesn't owe any taxes.
Green said, "Con artists shamelessly take advantage of people. Individuals should be on-guard for these scams and safeguard their social security numbers and personal financial information." Green went on to advise, "Be very careful of whom you trust for tax advice and of whom you trust with your money and your personal information."
Green explained that the IRS never communicates with taxpayers via email, text messaging or social media to ask for personal identification numbers such as Social Security numbers or finance-related numbers like credit card numbers, PIN numbers and the like. Those who receive an unexpected tax bill from the IRS, even though it might be through regular mail, should make certain it is bona fide before sending money to settle the bill, Green said.
If you are in doubt, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or go to the IRS website at www.IRS.gov. And if you receive any electronic communication like an email that looks like it is from the IRS, do not respond to it or open any attachment. Forward it immediately to phishing@irs.gov.
Date of Release: March 12, 2013
The FBI is currently investigating the activities of allegedly fraudulent Canadian business entities who are defrauding U.S. companies, Operation CANSCAM.
In summary, the scam begins when a Canadian business (typically located in or around Montreal, Quebec) requests a line of credit with a U.S. business. The Canadian business will fax or e-mail references, credit documents, and/or tax documents to prove authenticity. The Canadian business will then place an order for materials on the line of credit and arrange for shipping by a third party. The materials are hauled to Canada, and payment is never made.
There have already been victims from Wyoming and could be more.
For full details click here.
Date of Release: September 26, 2012
The Laramie County Sheriff's Department will be at Town & Country Pharmacy (514 South Greeley Highway) from 10:00AM through 2:00PM on Saturday, September 29th, to take back any un-wanted, unused, prescription, or over the counter drugs. The Sheriff's Department will join others in continuing this successful program.
This program has taken in about 340 pounds of unused and unwanted prescription drugs since last April. The purpose of these Drug Take Back Day's is to allow citizens to safely dispose of unused or unwanted prescription drugs in an environmentally safe manner and keep those drugs out of the hands of unauthorized persons or juveniles.
Drugs that have been taken in have ranged from over the counter drugs to narcotic prescription pills and liquids.
Once again, no illegal drugs, sharps, thermometers, oxygen containers, radioactive materials, pressurized containers, or chemotherapy drugs will be accepted.
For further information you can contact Lieutenant Linda Gesell at (307) 633-4735.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release for the Laramie County Sheriff's Department is Gerry Luce (307) 633-4725 or Lieutenant Linda Gesell at (307) 633-4735.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams are still affecting our citizens throughout the country. In a recent article published by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Americans have lost an estimated $42 million to these foreign scams. Fraudsters are still soliciting people through the mail, phone calls, internet, etc. claiming the person has won a substantial amount of money, a car or other prizes and that taxes and other up-front fees must be paid prior to obtaining the winnings. Often citizens are out thousands of dollars before realizing they have fallen victim to this scam.
Several warning signs of fraudulent scams include:
1) The caller claims the person has won a prize from a contest or lottery that the person did not enter.
2) The person has to pay fees or taxes in order to obtain winnings.
3) The person must cash a check and wire them money prior to obtaining the winnings.
4) Fraudsters impersonate officials from federal agencies claiming to be legitimate. ***The U.S. government does not participate in the distribution of prize money or sweepstakes ***.
5) The person is asked to give them personal identifying information and bank account numbers.
Fraudsters also use technology to mask their true telephone number to show a phone number calling from within the United States that is actually coming in from a foreign country. For additional information and resources, please visit the Federal Trade Commission's website at: http://www.ftc.gov or the United States Postal Inspection service at: http://www.deliveringtrust.com.
Source: Click here to view
Date of Release: June 7, 2012
The Laramie County Sheriff's Department will be at Laramie County Community college from 9:00AM through 1:00PM on Saturday, June 9th, to take back any un-wanted or unused prescription drugs. The Sheriff's Department will join Cheyenne Regional Medical Center's Senior's and Care-giver's Day activities.
Sheriff's Department personnel will be located inside the main doors of the physical fitness complex to accept the prescription drugs.
This program took in a record 320 pounds of unused and unwanted prescription drugs during the last National Prescription Drug Take Back Day event on Saturday, April 28th. The purpose of these Drug Take Back Day's is to support the CRMC and LCCC event while allowing citizens to safely dispose of unused or unwanted prescription drugs in an environmentally safe manner and keep those drugs out of the hands of unauthorized persons or juveniles. Drugs that have been taken in have ranged from over the counter drugs to narcotic prescription pills and liquids. Once again, no illegal drugs, sharps, or chemotherapy drugs will be accepted.
For further information you can contact Lieutenant Linda Gesell at (307) 633-4735.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release for the Laramie County Sheriff's Department is Gerry Luce (307) 633-4725 or Lieutenant Linda Gesell at (307) 633-4735.
Lt. Don Hollingshead from the Laramie County Sheriff's Office joined other law enforcement agencies, and first responders at the Cheyenne Depot plaza for the start of Wyoming's 2012 DON'T RISK IT CLICK IT OR TICKET seat belt enforcement mobilization. The Laramie County Sheriff's Office along with other Law Enforcement agencies across the state will be stepping-up safety efforts to save lives and reduce serious traffic injuries. Their efforts join law enforcements agencies nationwide to increase belt usage in a seat belt mobilization, running from May 21 through June 3, 2012. Deputies from the Laramie County Sheriff's Office will increase enforcement of traffic and safety belt laws. These officers know that wearing your seat belt is the best defense in a crash or against a drinking driver. Wyoming law states that drivers who are not buckled up during a traffic stop are subject to a ticket of $25 in addition to the traffic fine. Occupants are subject to a $10 fine.
The year 2011 saw persons killed on Wyoming roadways did not wear their safety belt 62.4% of the time. Safety belt usage saves lives and prevents injuries. Research has found that when lap and shoulder belts are used, they reduce the risk of fatal and serious injuries by 45 to 50 percent.
Sheriff Glick would like to remind the citizens of Laramie County that because we've seen first hand the severe injury and death that often results from not wearing a safety belt, the Laramie County Sheriff's Office will be increasing safety efforts during traffic stops by citing those not buckled. Don't risk a ticket � or worse, your life please remember to wear your safety belt. We want everyone on the road to remember to slow down, don't drink & drive and buckle up every trip, every time.
Wyoming continually falls below the observed national seat belt average and motorists should know that officers are out enforcing seat belt laws year-round.
Wear your seat belt; don't risk your life:
DON'T RISK IT CLICK IT OR TICKET.
Date of Release: May 16, 2012
The Laramie County Sheriff's Department will be recognizing a number of Deputies for valor and lifesaving at an Awards Ceremony on FRIDAY, MAY 18th at 11:00AM (in the Training Room of the Sheriff's Department 1910 Pioneer Avenue).
Awards for Distinguished Service, Meritorious Service, Lifesaving, and a Purple Heart to Deputy Chance Walkama who was wounded in a recent hotel shooting incident are among the awards to be presented. Additionally other staff is being recognized for longevity from 5 to 25 years of service and other notable community service to the Department and the County.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release is Gerry Luce at the Laramie County Sheriff's Department (307) 633-4725
Authority for Release is Captain Hillegas
Date of Release: April 30, 2012
The Laramie County Sheriff's Department took in a record 320 pounds of unused and unwanted prescription drugs this last Saturday, April 28th. The purpose of the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day was to allow citizens to safely dispose of unused or unneeded prescription drugs in an environmentally safe manner and keep those drugs out of the hands of unauthorized persons or juveniles.
The Sheriff's Department had three drop off sites two in the Cheyenne area and one in Burns.
This is the 3rd year that the Sheriff's Department has participated in this program. The First year over 90 pounds of prescription drugs were taken in, and last year over 120 pounds were turned in. Participation this year came close to tripling last year's event.
Drugs that were received ranged from over the counter drugs to narcotic prescription pills and liquids.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release for the Laramie County Sheriff's Department is Gerry Luce (307) 633-4725 or Lieutenant Linda Gesell at (307) 633-4735.
Date of Release: April 25, 2012
The Laramie County Sheriff's Department will be participating in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day this Saturday, April 28th. The purpose of this event is to allow citizens to safely dispose of unused or unneeded prescription drugs in an environmentally safe manner. It also allows individuals to dispose of prescription drugs while keeping them out of the hands of unauthorized persons or juveniles.
The Sheriff's Department will have three drop off sites that will be operated from 10AM until 2PM on Saturday. These sites are: Town & Country Pharmacy at 514 South Greeley Highway; Fire District #2 at 5800 North College Drive; and, Burns Town Hall, 327 S. Main Street, in Burns. In case of inclement weather there will be drop off points inside each location.
This is the 3rd year that the Sheriff's Department has participated in this program. The First year over 90 pounds of prescription drugs were taken in, and last year over 120 pounds were turned in.
Illegal drugs will not be accepted at any of the three sites. If you have any further questions you can contact Lieutenant Linda Gesell at (307) 633-4735.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release for the Laramie County Sheriff's Department is Gerry Luce (307) 633-4725 or Lieutenant Linda Gesell at (307) 633-4735.
Date of Release: March 14, 2012
Laramie County Sheriff Danny Glick has been chosen as Sheriff of the Year for 2011 by the Western States Sheriff's Association (WSSA) at its annual meeting in Las Vegas during the week of March 5th.
In making their selection, The Association stated that Sheriff Glick was selected due to his work with the Association in the areas of federal lands, jail issues, energy exploration and its impact on law enforcement, and involvement with WSSA committees. Additionally recognized was his work with the National Sheriff's Association and Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police.
Sheriff Glick was also elected to the Executive Committee of WSSA in the position of Sergeant at Arms. Glick serves as the Wyoming representative to WSSA.
The Western States Sheriff's Association is made up of members from 13 western States. Attending this year were six Sheriffs from Wyoming and approximately 150 other Sheriffs and senior staff from western states. The organization is dedicated to sharing issues unique to Sheriffs in the western United States, providing senior level training, and the ability to network law enforcement issues. Training at this year's annual meeting included nationally recognized speakers in areas of Constitutional Law and national media issues.
In acknowledging the presentation Sheriff Glick stated, "I'm honored and humbled to be recognized by my peers in the western States. This honor really recognizes the contributions of all law enforcement officers here in Wyoming and the fact that we in a small state can and do contribute to advancing professional law enforcement efforts and training inside and outside the borders of our State."
Sheriff Glick is also the Treasurer for the National Sheriff's Association and scheduled to become 3rd Vice President this June. He will also take over the duties of the President of the Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chief's of Police in April.
Point of Contact for further information regarding this release for the Laramie County Sheriff's Department is Gerry Luce (307) 633-4725.
DATE OF RELEASE: 01/05/2012
The Laramie County Sheriff's Department is providing a warning to the public against an ongoing scheme involving jury service. The public needs to be aware that individuals identifying themselves as court employees have been contacting citizens by telephone and advising them that they have been selected for jury duty. These individuals ask to verify names and Social Security numbers, then ask for credit card numbers. If the request is refused, citizens are then threatened with fines.
You may also receive a call from someone who says you failed to report for jury duty and that a warrant has been issued for your arrest. You say you never received a notice. To clear it up, the caller says he'll need some information for "verification purposes"-your birth date, social security number, maybe even a credit card number. This is when you should hang up the phone. It's a scam.
The judicial system does not contact people by telephone and ask for personal information such as your Social Security number, date of birth or credit card numbers. If you receive one of these phone calls, do not provide any personal or confidential information to these individuals. This is an attempt to steal or to use your identity by obtaining your name, Social Security number and potentially to apply for credit or credit cards or other loans in your name. It is an attempt to defraud you.
If you have already been contacted and have already given out your personal information, please monitor your account statements and credit reports, and contact your local law enforcement office.
RELEASE AUTHORIZED BY: Lt. Linda Gesell
July 7, 2011.
Two nine year old youths were recognized by Sheriff Danny Glick today for their sound decisions, and actions that assisted in reuniting a missing six year old juvenile with his distraught mother. Each youth was presented with a certificate of recognition in a ceremony at the Laramie County Sheriff's office.
On June 15, 2011 I, Deputy Poteet was dispatched to the YMCA to assist with locating a missing six year old juvenile. The six year old was attending school at Afflerbach Elementary, and scheduled to ride the bus to Alta Vista School where he would be picked up by YMCA staff.
He was placed on a bus that later dropped him off at Henderson school instead of Alta Vista. An attempt to locate was aired and several law enforcement officers were attempting to locate the youth. At approximately 2 pm. he was brought to the YMCA by a citizen named Eveline Sherod. It was determined that Sherod's Grandson, Trail Hogan and his friend Ryan McCarthy both nine years of age located him at Henderson school. He advised Hogan and McCarthy he was lost and was supposed to be at the YMCA. Hogan and McCarthy made very sound decisions, stayed with him and took him to Sherod who then took him to the YMCA where he was re-united with his Mother, who was extremely worried about his wellbeing.
Deputy Poteet recommended that McCarthy and Hogan be recognized by the Laramie County Sheriff s Office for their sound decisions and actions that returned the missing juvenile to safety.
Date of Release: June 9, 2011
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office has received information from several members of the public in regards to an email scam that citizens have been receiving within the past week.
The scam works in this fashion: You will receive the following information in email form.
Western Union: Identification Status
Be aware that banking laws require Western Union to verify your identity before completing online transactions. Please review the "My Identification Status" section below for more information.
You can access your profile at www.westernunion.com
When you click on the link provided it will take you to a page that is not related to Western union, and the information you enter is collected by scam artists.
One way to avoid the problem is to use the keypad, not the mouse: TYPE in the URL instead of clicking on the link provided in the email.
April 25, 2011
The Laramie County Sheriff's Department will be participating in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 30th from 10AM until 2PM in front of Town Hall in Pine Bluffs (220 Main Street). In case of inclement weather the drop off site will move indoors at the Town Hall.
Individuals will be able to drop off their unused prescription and over the counter medications.
In making this announcement, Sheriff Danny Glick stated, "we're pleased to be a part of this nation-wide effort allowing individuals to safely dispose of their unused or unwanted medications. This is a continuation of the effort this Agency began last June to provide a secure location for our citizens to get rid of those items other than in unsecured trash or waste disposal systems".
There are a number of items that will not be accepted. They include needles and sharps, Mercury (such as thermometers), oxygen containers, chemotherapy/radioactive substances, pressurized canisters, nor any illegal drugs.
For further information you may contact Lieutenant Linda Gesell at 633-4735.
Point of Contact for further information is Gerry Luce at the Laramie County Sheriff's Department (307) 633-4725
Authority for Release is Lt. Gesell at 633-4735
April 15, 2011
The Laramie County Sheriff's Office will be participating in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 30th from 10AM until 2PM in front of the main entrance to the Sheriff's Office at 1910 Pioneer Avenue.
Individuals will be able to drop off their unused prescription and over the counter medications.
In making this announcement, Sheriff Danny Glick stated, "we're pleased to be a part of this nation-wide effort allowing individuals to safely dispose of their unused or unwanted medications. This is a continuation of the effort this Agency began last June to provide a secure location for our citizens to get rid of those items other than in unsecured trash or waste disposal systems".
There are a number of items that will not be accepted. They include needles and sharps, Mercury (such as thermometers), oxygen containers, chemotherapy/radioactive substances, pressurized canisters, nor any illegal drugs.
For further information you may contact Lieutenant Linda Gesell at 633-4735.
Point of Contact for further information is Gerry Luce at the Laramie County Sheriff's Office (307) 633-4725.
Authority for Release is Lt. Gesell at 633-4735.
Sheriff Danny Glick accepted a very generous donation of 73 Infant and Children's blankets January 21, from Benjamin Harnish of Cheyenne. Ben had contacted the Public Relations Division of the Laramie County Sheriffs' Office early January, stating that he was seeking a project for his Eagle Scout award, and was interested in doing something for a segment of the population that he felt was often overlooked. He said that he wanted to raise and donate blankets that would be used to bring some comfort to children involved in a traumatic situation.
Ben organized a work day that was held January 15th at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Stake Center in Cheyenne, where approximately 36 volunteers cut, assembled and wrapped the 73 blankets.
Ben said that the materials for the blankets were donated by the members of the LDS Church and Wal-Mart, and the wrapping material by Lowe's. After the work day the volunteers were treated to pizza and cookies donated by Papa Johns and Eileen Cookies.
December 21, 2010
The children of a local Laramie County family decided that they wanted to assist the Laramie County Sheriff's Office in obtaining a new dog for the K-9 Unit, and presented Sheriff Glick with a check for $200.00. The children, Jaiden and Johanna, chose to donate several months of allowance to the K-9 program, and their Mother Stacey matched the amount pledged by the children.
The decision to raise the money came after Sgt. Don Hollingshead gave a K-9 demonstration to the R.E.C.E.S.S Home School organization. During the presentation the children were permitted to interact with K-9 Rowdy, Jaiden and Johanna took an active interest in the K-9 program at that time, and decided to assist the program by donating their allowance. Sheriff Danny Glick met with the family at the Laramie County Sheriff's Office, and presented each member with a certificate of appreciation.
December 16, 2010
Donation of bicycles to Salvation Army.
The Laramie County Sheriffs Department is pleased to announce that for the seventeenth year they were able to donate bicycles to the Salvation Army to be given as Christmas gifts. Carrie Brown of the Sheriffs Department obtained the necessary paperwork from the Laramie County Attorney in order to have approximately 16 bicycles donated to "Operation Happy Christmas."
In years past, unclaimed bicycles found by Sheriffs deputies were sold at auction. Feeling that needy children were excluded by this process The Sheriff's Office explored the idea of donating bicycles to the Salvation Army's Operation Happy Christmas." The donated bicycles were presented to the Salvation Army at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday December 8, 2010. Anyone interested in making donations to this Christmas program should contact the Salvation Army at 634-2769.
