Imposter scammers posing as BPD officers

July 14, 2023

The Bradenton Police Department warns the public of a resurgence in imposter scams.

Victims report receiving a call from someone claiming to be a member of the Department administration using their full name (Captain William Knight). The caller asks for personal information as part of an official investigation or because of a warrant or traffic ticket. Victims report the callers requested their credit or debit card numbers, banking information, social security numbers, prepaid gift cards, or remote access to the victim’s computer.

The scammers use spoofing technology to change the caller ID to appear the call originates from the Bradenton Police Department.

A law enforcement or court official will never ask you to wire money, provide prepaid gift cards, or ask for your confidential information over the phone or via email.

If you receive one of these calls, hang up. If you believe you have been a victim of one of these scams, please call us at 941-932-9300 or email Detective Michael Carpenter at michael.carpenter@bradentonpd.com.

You can also file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office online at www.myfloridalegal.com or by phone at 1-866-9-NO SCAM.