A manager at a Dollar Tree in Clearwater, Florida, was honored by the Clearwater Police Department for stopping a gift card scam that targeted a senior customer. The scammer attempted to trick the victim into purchasing $1,000 in gift cards.

How the Scam Was Foiled

Theresa Harmon, the store manager, noticed suspicious activity when the elderly customer tried to buy a second $500 gift card after the first purchase. Harmon refused to sell the customer another card and persuaded him to hang up on the scammer. She then issued a full refund for the initial $500 purchase.

The scammer had promised the victim a brand-new truck in exchange for the gift cards, claiming to represent Publishers Clearing House. Harmon’s actions prevented the victim from losing $1,000.

Law Enforcement Response

Detective Dan Marscher praised Harmon’s quick thinking, saying it’s exciting to see a community member step in to help. Marscher encouraged others to be vigilant and watch for suspicious activity, such as customers staying on their phones while buying high-value cards.

The Clearwater Police Department has not yet identified the individual suspect who called the victim or confirmed where the call originated. Investigators are still working to track down the scammer.

Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.