State Patrol Issues Fund-Raising Alert

Fri., Aug. 20, 1999

From Staff Reports

The Washington State Patrol has issued a consumer alert after a rash of complaints from people calling about fund-raising companies that are affiliating themselves with the state agency.

The companies that have been the target of complaints are the American Association of State Troopers and the Washington State Narcotics Investigators Association, according to WSP. The State Patrol does not have any relationship with either of these businesses.

Tactics used in deceptive fund-raising may include the use of incorrect yet similar words, such as “highway patrol” instead of “state patrol,” giving a hard-luck story, the use of high-pressure sales tactics, or they may be reluctant to send written information.

To check out a charity, call the Secretary of State’s Office at (800) 332-4483.

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