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

MMH Announces Weather-Related Closures for January 26

As always, MMH’s emergency services department will remain open.

Winter Wonderland Ice Rink Closes for the Season

The Ice Rink plans to reopen for next season.

Southeast Indiana Travel Advisories

Winter Storm Warning runs until Monday at noon.

Local Sports Report - January 23-24, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

SEI Football Stars Earn Academic All-State Honors

Congratulations to all the honorees!

Local Sports Report - January 22, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

On Air

Your Hometown Radio Station playing
Rodney Atkins - Cleaning This Gun

Miranda Lambert Vice 21:17
Randy Travis I Won't Need You Anymore 21:14
Dylan Scott What He'll Never Have 21:11
Terri Clark You're Easy On The Eyes 21:07