William Grant Claiming to represent American Family Publishers ripoff! Sweepstakes "tax escrow" attempt. Seattle Washington

A man identifying himself as William Grant called me on May 11 and represented himself as a Senior Vice President of American Family Publishers. He talked about his "company spokesmen" Dick Clark and Ed McMahon. He stated to my sister who answered the phone that I had won $500,000.

He called back 1 hour later when I could take the call myself. He stated American Family Publishers was located in Clearwater, Fla. (Their BBB says the company is not located there, nor are they listed in the Clearwater directory).

He explained in detail what would happen: he and 17 of his closet friends (including the President of his company) would be at our local airport Friday, May 17 to board 4 limos to come to my home to present a check for the ful amount, then I would be escorted to my bank to deposit my check and would be taken to lunch. Many harmless details were requested to make it seem more legitimate.

After the speel he stated that he would check on tax implications and call me back. He then called back with the "hit" asking for $4,986.12, which he immediately "reduced" to $1960. Said money was to be sent to Asst. United States Attorney Christine Campbell
1015 2nd. Ave. (not the actual address of the US Atty - I checked) Seattle, Washington 98104 for a "tax escrow" account.

He said the government had to send me a confirmation of this to give the company permission to come here and give me this alleged money! I didn't send him any money! Hope no one else does either.

These scam artists are apparently physically located in Seattle or have a female operative there to pick up the cash at Western Union as that is the pickup location given.

Betty
KINGSPORT, Tennessee
U.S.A.