News brief: Police urge caution regarding door-to-door sales

By Sharyn L. Decker
Lewis County Sirens news reporter

Centralia police want residents to be wary of door-to-door salespeople, revealing that in the past, some of them contacted by local police had extensive criminal histories and used the job as a ruse to collect personal information for fraudulent purposes later.

Police Sgt. Pat Fitzgerald indicated the department isn’t attempting to disparage or discourage legal operations, but given the coming holiday season, felt an advisory was in the community’s best interest.

“When dealing with these individuals trust your instincts,” Fitzgerald said. “If that little voice in your head is telling you that something does not seem right, it probably isn’t.

“Report anything you perceive as suspicious at anytime.”

Many of the door-to-door sales companies are from out of state, and do not have a local business license anyhow, according to the Centralia Police Department.

Fitzgerald warns the public to be cautious and says do not allow these individuals inside your home.

Do not give them personal or debit or credit card information and if necessary, call law enforcement and report any misconduct by these individuals, Fitzgerald said.

He offers up a reminder of who to call: Central Dispatch at 360-740 1105  or for emergencies, dial 911.

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