Police warn of alleged Krispy Kreme donut scheme

EDMONTON- Police are warning Edmontonians of a scheme that allegedly preys on the generosity of those who want to help southern Alberta flood victims.

EPS Acting Sgt. Mike Walkom says last Friday, a table was set up at Edmonton City Centre where Krispy Kreme donuts were sold. The people selling the donuts allegedly told customers the money would be going towards those impacted by the floods in southern Alberta.

Police say the suspects did not accept cash, only credit cards.

“The credit card information of those people that bought the donuts was compromised,” Walkom said.

Police say the suspects then defrauded the victims of thousands of dollars.

Walkom says a number of victims have already come forward, but believe there are more out there. At this time it is not known exactly how much money was taken.

“As people come in the tally just keeps going up,” he said. “We’ve had three more people come forward today with money being taken, so there’s going to be a lot of people involved in this.

“A tragedy such as the floods happens and now you think you’re going to help out, help the cause, and now somebody is taking advantage of a terrible situation and it’s extremely frustrating.”

Police are warning people to make sure they are donating to legitimate organizations.

“Be aware of people who will not accept cash or request that you use multiple cards for payment,” Walkom said. If the public comes across anyone accepting donations who seems suspicious, we are asking them to contact police immediately to report this behavior.”

Investigators are looking for a woman they say is a person of interest in the case. She is described as 20 to 40-years-old, fair skinned, with blonde or light brown hair and has a thin to medium build.

Anyone with information on this woman or the alleged fraud is asked to call EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.