09/02/2026
We just had our SCAM presentation that included threatening tactics....please if you are not sure about a situation and it seems threatening, hang up the phone and seek help. SCAMMERs rely on making you think you are in trouble or need to settle things right away.
S-tay
C-alm
A-void
M-anipulaters
The Sturbridge Police Department would like to recognize the quick thinking and alertness of Tractor Supply store manager Trent McShea. When an older adult customer attempted to purchase $1,500 in gift cards while actively engaged on a phone call, Trent recognized potential signs of a scam. Drawing on his familiarity with fraud tactics targeting older adults, he inquired about the person on the line. Although the customer only stated she was speaking with a friend and maintained the cards were for her grandson, Trent voiced his concern that she was being targeted. Thanks to his intervention, the customer left the store without completing the purchase and drove directly to the police station. Once she informed the caller of her location, the scammer immediately disconnected and did not call back.
At the station, the victim explained that the situation began with a text message she believed was from Amazon. After responding, she was transferred among several individuals, including one who falsely claimed to be with the Federal Trade Commission and threatened her with arrest if she did not immediately pay using gift cards. Officers reassured her that she was safe, emphasizing that legitimate businesses and government agencies will never demand payment via gift cards or threaten immediate arrest.
The Sturbridge Police Department strongly encourages all residents to exercise caution when clicking links or speaking with unknown callers, and to never share personal identifiable information or buy gift cards to settle a debt. We urge local shopkeepers and retail clerks to remain vigilant for similar suspicious transactions, and we applaud Trent McShea for his decisive action in protecting a member of our community.
In Safety,
Chief Dessert
