Several suspects have been located and interviewed in relation to a scam investigation, according to a news release from the Ripley County Sheriff's Department.

In August, the sheriff's department received complaints of individuals going door to door asking for money on behalf of the Hope Baptist Church in Dillsboro, said the release. After several months of investigation, suspects were interviewed as were folks who may have been victims or witnesses. None have been named, pending formal charges by the prosecutor.

Meanwhile, anyone who believes they or someone they know was a victim of this scam is asked to contact Ripley County Sheriff's Department.

“Scams are going on everywhere, and it is hard to keep up with them,” said Ripley County Sheriff Thomas Grills.

“We, the sheriff's office, attempt to keep up with all the complaints, but there are way more reported than we can investigate,” he said.

“I would like to remind everyone to make donations locally if you like, and to make sure you do not give personal information out over the phone or through the mail. Also, make sure you inquire with the three major credit bureaus to monitor your credit every year,” he said.

A large amount of identity theft is happening as well, said Grills. If someone needs further information on scams or how to protect his or her identity, they may visit the sheriff's website at www.ripleycounty.com/sheriff or call the office at 812-689-5558.

The sheriff will be at Buckeye Village at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 21, to give a seminar on how to protect yourself from scams and identity theft. The seminar is open to the public.