By: Sheriff Carmine Marceno
The video and still photographs depicting loss of life and property, from natural disasters around the globe, are devastating and heartbreaking, especially to those in Southwest Florida who recently experienced the decimation brought on by Hurricane Ian.
While an immeasurable number of volunteers and relief agencies tirelessly and selflessly work to help those in need, catastrophe and misfortune bring scammers and fraudsters to the surface. Reports of fraudulent email and text messages are already being reported, to no one’s surprise, across the nation.
Fraudulent “Go Fund Me” accounts, and credible-sounding relief agencies, spring up immediately following these catastrophic events. While some may be reputable and may have good intentions, many are deceitful and dishonest.
Should you elect to make a financial donation, please ensure that your funds will be used as intended. There are numerous reputable agencies working to assist the victims of the deadly and horrific wildfires, flooding and severe storms. It is recommended that one invests a bit of time researching the relief agency to which one is considering donating to. Gather information regarding the intended use of donated funds and verify that the agency has experience in disaster relief.
Agencies verified by the Better Business Bureau Standards for Charity Accountability can be viewed by visiting give.org.
THE SWELTERING HEAT
The blistering temperatures are forcing us to make changes to our daily routines requiring additional water consumption and more time indoors. The sweltering heat requires similar considerations to be made for our animal population… both domestic and livestock.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office reminds pet and animal owners that all animals are at risk when temperatures reach these record levels. Please ensure that your pets and animals have access to water and shade. Please be certain to avoid leaving pets in parked cars under any circumstances.
ROADWAY SAFETY AND STREET-RACING
As mentioned last month, our Traffic Unit efforts in and around the LCSO East/Central Districts are showing notable results! Some of the areas of concern included State Road 82, Griffin Drive, Gateway Boulevard, Treeline Avenue, Daniels Parkway and Three Oaks Parkway.
Over the last several weeks, a total of 60 traffic operations were conducted in those specific areas alone resulting in traffic citations and the impounding of a number of vehicles. With the start of the school year, children and school buses are seemingly everywhere and must be protected. Patrol, Traffic and unmarked units are closely monitoring school zones and bus routes across the county. Drive cautiously!
Roadway safety, student transportation safety and street-racing enforcement efforts will continue across the county. We will continue to dedicate resources to enforcing traffic laws and making Lee County Roads safer for all residents and guests.
