DCFS Scam

     For a second time during the past three months, a person, who falsely represented herself to be an investigator with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, approached a Mason County family and conducted a house inspection.

     According to the latest report, while the female was in the Manito Township residence, she asked for everyone’s personal information and also requested a urine sample from one of the adults before leaving. “We’re not quite sure what to think of this but it has all the making for identity theft,” said Sheriff Wayne Youell. “We want to bring awareness to our residents to prevent encounters like this in the future.”

     The suspect was described as a woman in her late 20’s with auburn hair. She said her name was Valerie. A stocky male with brown hair and a goatee accompanied the woman and identified himself as Eric Simms.

     Sheriff Youell states that if people, who are claiming to be an official with any agency, approach you; it is always appropriate and a good idea to ask for their identification.

     Anyone with information about this matter is encouraged to telephone the Mason County Sheriff’s Office at 309-543-2231.

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