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 Click on the underlined headings below to go directly to that section of the newsletter. Click on the 'Back to Table of Contents' link at the end of each section to return here.
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 Financial Scams
Financial scams are a continuing problem. Scammers’ methods are constantly evolving to take advantage of new opportunities and new technology. Within FCPD, the Financial Crimes unit investigates these incidents. Here is an update from them on the current situation:
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“Elderly individuals are increasingly targeted by a variety of scams that exploit trust, isolation, and unfamiliarity with technology. One of the most common is the “grandparent scam,” where a fraudster poses as a grandchild or relative in distress—claiming they’ve been arrested, hospitalized, or stranded—and urgently asks for money. These scammers often use personal details found online to make their stories more convincing.
Online scams are becoming a major threat particularly in the [retired community]. These scams involve fake advertisements or pop-up warnings about computer viruses. Victims who click on these advertisements may inadvertently install malicious software or be connected to scammers posing as tech support. These fraudsters often demand payment either by instructing the victim to deliver cash to a courier or by having them purchase gift cards and send the codes back to the scammer. Scammers constantly pressure victims to act quickly and keep the situation secret from others. Staying informed and maintaining open communication with trusted family members are key to preventing these types of fraud.
It's important to remember that legitimate businesses and government agencies will never ask you to pay in unusual or untraceable ways—such as delivering cash in person, using a Bitcoin ATM, buying gift cards, or mailing money. If someone pressures you to act urgently or keep the situation secret, it's a red flag. When in doubt, stop and speak with a trusted family member or call the organization directly using a verified number before taking any action.”
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Unfortunately, a large percentage of scams originate from other jurisdictions or abroad and involve difficult-to-trace transactions. As a result, money lost is rarely recoverable. The best defense is to be obsessively cautious about clicking links, revealing personnel information, or reacting to pressure tactics.
Here are some tips on common Frauds and Scams. However, the constantly changing nature of scams makes maintaining a list of all of them virtually impossible. Community members – particularly older members – should frequently visit sites such as FCPD’s Silver Shield and Fairfax County’s SCAMS web pages. Additionally, they should consider attending one of the periodic scams and fraud presentations held by FCPD, Fairfax County, AARP and other groups.
Financial crimes should be reported as soon as possible. The preferred reporting method is the FICOR system. The FCPD non-emergency number (703-691-2131) can also be used.
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Inside Franconia Station” is a monthly feature highlighting the units and skills that enable the station to perform its role in keeping Fairfax County safe. The areas below have been covered so far. Click on a unit to see where it fits in at the station:
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Patrol, (October 2025)
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Neighborhood Patrol Unit, (November 2024)
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Shopping Center Unit, (December 2025)
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Selective Enforcement Team (SET), (January 2025)
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Parking Enforcement, (February 2025)
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Criminal Investigations Division, (March 2025)
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School Resource Officers. (April 2025)
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Auxiliary Police Officers, (May 2025)
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Volunteers in Police Service, (June 2025)
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Crime Prevention, (July 2025)
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Police Citizen Aides, (August2025)
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Crossing Guards, (September 2025)
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 PFC Peter Mason is a young officer who has quickly established himself to be motivated and proactive. PFC Mason makes a high number of criminal arrests, often for events that are self-generated. He has developed himself into a knowledgeable and experienced officer who is a valuable asset to his squad.
In the early morning hours of September 10th, PFC Mason observed a vehicle fail to stop before entering a highway from a shopping center. He conducted a traffic stop and observed the occupants making furtive movements. Once additional units arrived, PFC Mason began removing the occupants to further his investigation and he observed narcotics in plain view. While conducting a search of the vehicle PFC Mason discovered a concealed firearm in the rear seat. The occupant of this seat was found to be a convicted felon. Additionally, the driver was also found to be concealing a firearm upon his subsequent arrest for narcotics.
A minor traffic violation that could easily be dismissed as inconsequential resulted in narcotics and weapons charges for two of the occupants. PFC Mason’s proactivity and instincts took two firearms off the streets before they could be used to harm the community. His work ethic and dedication to his profession deserve recognition. For these reasons, PFC Mason is Officer of the Month.
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Note: This press release relates to the September Officer of the Month citation above.
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