Medical center victim to scammers

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Officials at Richard L Roudebush VA Medical Center in Indianapolis say they’ve received about a dozen calls from people who donated to someone claiming to represent the facility. But staffers say they don’t solicit donations that way.

“We don’t do anything like that,” said Jim Todd, cheif of voluntary service at the medical center.

Todd said the people claimed to have been approached in store parking lots in Johnson County and Shelby County.

“Some people are reporting back that they gave $125 with the promise of going to a raffle for a TV,” said Todd, who added that the medical center has strict rules when it comes to asking for and receiving donations. It does not offer gifts or any incentives and it does not use private individuals or companies to solicit donations.

"We follow procedures and we get it processed, and a thank you letter is sent and signed in ink by me," said Todd. “I didn’t think this would be one of the (job) responsibilities – dealing with people scamming veterans.”

Anyone wishing to donate to the Indianapolis VA Medical Center may do so directly by mail, in person, or through their website .

Todd said each person who called was urged to contact their local police agency.