Recently, deputies responded to a report of an in-person scam. The victims advised two males showed up to their residence in South Stafford claiming to be with Dominion Energy. The fake energy employees advised there was a power surge and they needed to examine the victims’’ power panel. After the “examination,” the suspects advised the victims would need to pay for repairs, or their house could burn down. The suspects took a check, cashed it, and were not heard from again.

Scams like this rely on the victim to act quickly or face potential life changing consequences. The goal is to prevent you from thinking clearly or verifying the situation, making you more likely to comply without asking questions. In situations like this, don’t be afraid to ask to see credentials or call the organization the person is pretending to be with. Remember, no legitimate organization will demand immediate money without going through official channels.

Detectives are currently investigating the incident. If something like this has happened to you, please contact Detective H.D. Young at 540-658-4450.