By DAN KLEIN
WISH-TV | wishtv.com
Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Indiana has a warning that people are using its name to scam others of donations meant to help veterans.
Two people have already been victimized. Officials worry there are more victims out there, perhaps even a number of people who don’t even realize their good money has not gone to a good cause.
Ryan
“We’re upset about that and that’s not what we desire here at the VFW to promote, especially during the coronavirus,” State Adjutant Deborah Ryan said.
Ryan has received two reports from victims this week, stating someone had knocked on their door or called them on the phone and they gave money.
Ryan, who is still a reserve in the Air Force, said that’s unheard of.
“I’ve actually personally never been approached by the VFW to say, ‘Hey, can you give us some money?’ Never and I’m in it.”
Both victims have filed police reports.
But for now she just wants people to trust, verify and call (317) 377-1795 if they have any questions.
“We just want to do the right thing for the victims and protect them. If money is being taken away from them, they truly deserve. I just want others to know,” she said.
Meanwhile, she said the VFW will continue to pursue this and push for the max penalty for the scammers.
One of Ryan’s core values in the Air Force is service before self. This is just service for self. She fears there are more victims out there. “Yes. The organization would be concerned for that too.”