Tags: los angeles | wildfires | scammers | donations

Officials: Beware of Scams When Donating to LA Fire Victims

By    |   Sunday, 12 January 2025 09:46 PM EST

Scammers are targeting people making donation to help the victims of the Los Angeles wildfires, California Attorney General Rob Bonta warned Saturday.

"We have people with big hearts who want to help, they want to donate, they want to support the victims," Bonta said, according to ABC News. "We also see scammers who are taking advantage of that goodness and that generosity and scamming and defrauding those individuals."

Other California officials have said those willing to donate should do their due diligence. On Sunday, Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell suggested verifying organizations before donating.

"Take time to thoroughly research the charity or organization that you're considering. Reputable groups will have clear information about their mission and proven track records," he said.

McDonnell also advised the public to report any organizations that appear suspicious to the police and to avoid cash donations.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert G. Luna said Sunday that he was "eager to prosecute" anyone taking advantage of people's good nature.

"To anyone who would go out and take advantage of this tragedy for their greedy gain, who would further victimize people who have potentially lost everything, who are already victims, who would look at this devastation and see dollar signs, I have a message for you: You will be held accountable," he said.

"My office will be engaged to hold you accountable."

Nick Koutsobinas

Nick Koutsobinas, a Newsmax writer, has years of news reporting experience. A graduate from Missouri State University’s philosophy program, he focuses on exposing corruption and censorship.

© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.


StreetTalk
Scammers are targeting people making donation to help the victims of the Los Angeles wildfires, California Attorney General Rob Bonta warned Saturday.
los angeles, wildfires, scammers, donations
227
2025-46-12
Sunday, 12 January 2025 09:46 PM
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