Franklin Co. Sheriff's Department Investigating Fraudulent Check & Money Order Scam

Friday, August 12, 2022 at 10:21 AM

By Franklin County Sheriff's Department, news release

Several incidents have been reported, including the sale of vehicles.

Shutterstock photo.

(Brookville, Ind.) - Franklin County Sheriff’s Deputies would like to warn citizens of possible fraudulent transactions taking place through online sales of merchandise.

Deputies are investigating several incidents of items, including vehicles, being purchased with the use of fraudulent money orders, cashier’s checks, and personal checks.

“These checks and money orders look like the real thing,” said Franklin County Sheriff’s Department Major Greg Mehlbauer. “Sellers can always contact their bank to verify that the check or money order is legit. Or, the seller can also contact the financial institution issuing the check or money order to verify its authenticity,” continued Mehlbauer.

In some incidents, Deputies have discovered that the buyers are insistent upon completing the sales on weekends, when banks are not open. Deputies encourage citizens to complete large transactions, and not sign over vehicle titles, until the funds can be verified.

Citizens who have been victims of similar scams are asked to report the fraud to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department at 765-647-4138.

More from Local News

Events

  • Al-Anon Meeting

    Help for Friends and Family of a problem drinker. You know what it is doing to them, do you know what it is doing to you?

    at Hamline Chapel United Methodist Church
  • Dolly's Summer Tour

    Our Dolly Parton stand-up is making her rounds to participating local businesses all summer long! Send in your selfie with Dolly for a chance to win!

  • Grief Share

    No matter the circumstances, grief is painful and confusing. GriefShare offers a safe, welcoming group where others understand your loss the emotions of grief.

    at The Cove

DCF Accepting Applications for Three Different Scholarships

The deadline to apply for all three is October 1.

UPDATE: State Road 48 Reopens After Repairs Made to Downed Wires

The incident caused SR 48 to close at Kaiser Drive

Shady Nook Care Center's Bike Night Returns Next Week

The event is designed to provide entertainment for Shady Nook residents

2026 Team Preview: Milan Brings Back Plenty of Experience After Semi-State Run

The Indians kickoff the season on the road at Rushville (Aug. 21)

Local Sports Report - August 4, 2026

Batesville Girls Golf was on the course on Tuesday

South Dearborn Touts Backman Field Upgrades as New School Year Begins

A new press box and videoboard were added this summer.

On Air

Alison Wiegand playing
Josh Turner - I Was There

Alan Jackson O How I Love Jesus - PEC ONLY 6:11
Carrie Underwood Something in the Water 6:07
Reba McEntire Sing It Now 6:03
Fox News Fox News National Newscast 6:02