The San Diego County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about donation mailers that ask for money to buy law enforcement equipment, according to East County Magazine.

The Sheriff's Office said it will never ask the public for money to buy supplies such as bulletproof vests, helmets or other equipment for deputies. The warning came after mailers from the United States Deputy Sheriff's Association were sent locally.

East County Magazine reported that the mailers have prompted warnings from multiple law enforcement agencies around the country. The article also noted poor ratings for the organization from charity-rating sources.

For Santee residents, the practical takeaway is simple: a mailer using law enforcement imagery or language is not the same as a verified local request. The Sheriff's Office advises residents to research any organization before donating and to contact local law enforcement if they are unsure.

Anyone who receives a suspicious mailer should avoid sending money until they have checked the organization, confirmed where donations go and verified whether a local agency is actually involved.

Source: East County Magazine - https://eastcountymagazine.org/sheriff-warns-of-scam-mailers-soliciting-donations-for-law-enforcement/