Police Receive Reports Of Multiple Frauds Committed In South Philadelphia
By Robin Rieger and Andrew Kramer
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Police say over the last few days, they have received reports of fraudulent activities that have occurred in South Philadelphia.
According to police, the victims of these crimes reported that tow truck drivers knocked on their doors asking for money to pay the towing fee for their neighbor that they say was involved in an auto accident.
One incident happened Tuesday night on the 700 block of Carpenter Street in South Philadelphia.
"I get a knock, answered the door, this man standing their tells me my neighbor's been involved in an accident," Elie Klitsch said. "Tells me that she and the baby and Colleen are at Einstein Hospital. He needed to tow her car and she didn't have enough money. She needed an addition $19 and she said I would pay it. So, I did, " said Klitsch.
The victims later found out that the story was false and that they had been defrauded.
"Imagine my surprise when my neighbor showed up, in her truck. She was never in an accident," said Klitsch, who called police to report she had been scammed out of $20 but was more upset at how vulnerable she felt as a result of the incident.
"First of all, he knew all of our names. I let him into my apartment. Suppose he had a gun," Klitsch said.
Police say a similar incident happened Thursday on the 1200 block of South Clarion Street.
Police say the suspect in this case is described as a black male, 30-40 years-of-age, 5'10″ to 6'2″ and 200 lbs. He was said to have been wearing dark clothing and a baseball cap.
Police are asking that if you are approached in a similar fashion, do not give any money and call 9-1-1 as soon as possible.
