The City is warning residents about recent scam attempts involving individuals impersonating City employees. In some cases, people have posed as curbside leaf collection crew members and attempted to charge residents for services that the City provides free of cost. We’ve also learned of fake event planners posting on social media and requesting fees to participate in City events. These are not legitimate City operations.
Please remember: Official City staff will always wear City-issued uniforms, use marked City vehicles and equipment, carry City identification, and communicate using @collegeparkmd.gov email addresses. If something feels suspicious or you don’t see these official markings, do not engage. Instead, reach out directly to the City to verify the information.
If you encounter suspicious individuals or behavior, contact the Prince George’s County Police immediately so they can investigate. For non-emergencies, call 301-352-1200. For emergencies or crimes in progress, call 9-1-1. You can also notify the City by submitting a report at www.collegeparkmd.gov/tellus or by calling 240-487-3588. If possible, provide photos or the tag number of any involved person or vehicle—this information can be extremely helpful for investigators.
With the holiday season approaching, scams and thefts often increase. Please take simple steps to protect yourself and your property: stay aware of your surroundings, lock your vehicles, avoid leaving cars idling even if you have the key fob, and try to park in busy, well-lit areas. If you are buying or selling items through online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace, avoid sharing personal details and complete all transactions at the police department’s designated safe-exchange space.
Thank you for helping keep College Park safe and informed. Stay alert, stay cautious, and stay safe, College Park!
MARY ANN HARTNETT
Can this be translated and posted in Spanish also? I have neighbors who could be effected.