After a natural disaster, communities can face a different threat: scammers.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, North Carolina law enforcement agencies warned residents about potential scammers.
At a gathering outside the Haywood County Courthouse on Monday, state Attorney General Jeff Jackson had a clear message for people who are looking to take advantage of Helene victims.
“We are not going to tolerate contracting fraud. We are not going to tolerate property crime. We are not going to tolerate scams related to Helene,” he said. “At my office, we are going to prioritize any and all complaints coming out of western North Carolina.”
Jackson spoke at the Waynesville press conference after meeting with law enforcement agencies from across western North Carolina.
He was flanked by more than a dozen high-ranking law enforcement officers including Haywood County Sheriff Bill Wilke.
“Take a look at the law enforcement that's represented here. I'm not the only one standing in the gap. These officials will ensure that our citizens are cared for and protected to the fullest extent of the law,” he said.
State Bureau of Investigation Director Chip Hawley joined Jackson and announced the launch of an initiative to deter property theft and support North Carolinians repairing and rebuilding homes and businesses after Hurricane Helene. The project, dubbed “Safe to Rebuild,” is aimed at protecting residents and prosecuting scammers.
For tips on how to spot fraud, or how to report it, Jackson encouraged people to visit ncdoj.gov/safetorebuild.
