Salem police receive second complaint about phony prosecutor

STAFF REPORT

SALEM — Police are investigating a second complaint of someone claiming to be a Columbiana County prosecutor asking for money.

Detective David Talbert said Wednesday that an 85-year-old woman was approached by a man about two weeks ago who sought money for a criminal case involving her son.

Talbert said the woman gave the man $200 even though he displayed a driver’s license from North Carolina.

In a second case, a Salem woman Monday told police she had been approached by a person who also claimed to be a prosecutor who said she would be arrested if she did not provide funds in a civil action.

County Prosecutor Robert Herron warned people not to share any personal financial information with anyone. He also asked that anyone who is approached by someone claiming to be a prosecutor and is attempting to negotiate a settlement to immediately contact the prosecutor’s office at (330) 420-0140.

Talbert and other law enforcement officials said it is rare for people to pose as a prosecutor.