HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Several Hutchinson residents have received telephone calls from someone soliciting donations for the Hutchinson Police Dept.

Police officers do not conduct phone soliciting fundraisers. The Local Fraternal Order of Police organizations (Lodge #7 of Hutchinson and Lodge #18 of Reno County) have confirmed they are not soliciting donations by telephone.

The calls are reportedly coming from the 316 area code. However, with modern technology, scam artists are able to make it appear as though the calls are being made locally, even if they’re not.

HPD reminds you to be alert. Never send money when you suspect fraud.