Fire officials warn of local scam

By Staff
Jason Houston FCT Managing Editor
State and local officials are warning local store owners of a money scam involving fire extinguisher inspection.
Alabama Deputy Fire Marshal Lyndon Blaxton said a Franklin County store owner told law enforcement agents Thursday night that a person had entered their store claiming to be a state employee. The person then looked at the store's fire extinguishers and charged the store clerk and unspecified amount of money without actually doing anything to the extinguishers.
Russellville building inspector Steve Thornton said he had visited stores throughout the county Friday asking about suspicious visits. Thornton said late Friday that he believed warrants would soon be taken out on the individual.
Thornton said businesses are required to have their fire extinguishers examined, but the business can choose whatever company they wish, as long as the company supplies licensed inspectors, for the service.
Russellville Fire Chief Joe Mansell said if the person represents himself or herself as being a state fire marshal, the person could face charges of impersonating a law enforcement officer.
If not, the person could face possible charges of theft by deception.
Anyone with information about the case should contact the Russellville Police at 332-2230.