News
September 24, 2025
Baseball team scam reported; Muscatine police seek information
The Muscatine Police Department is asking for the community's help to investigate reports of a youth baseball scam in Muscatine.
Muscatine residents are being urged to be vigilant following reports of a youth baseball team scam circulating in the area. The Muscatine Police Department (MPD) has launched an investigation into the alleged scam and is actively seeking information from the public to help identify those responsible.
Details surrounding the exact nature of the scam remain limited as the investigation is ongoing. However, police reports suggest that individuals may be falsely representing themselves as affiliated with a local youth baseball team or organization. These individuals are allegedly soliciting donations or selling fundraising items under false pretenses, with the promised funds not reaching the intended beneficiaries – the young athletes and their team.
“We are taking these reports very seriously,” stated a spokesperson for the Muscatine Police Department. “It’s disheartening to see individuals exploiting the community’s generosity and love for youth sports for their own personal gain. We encourage anyone who has been approached or has information regarding this alleged scam to come forward.”
The MPD is advising residents to exercise caution when approached for donations or fundraising efforts, especially if the solicitor is unfamiliar or lacks proper identification. They recommend verifying the legitimacy of the fundraising campaign by contacting the baseball team's official organization or league directly. Residents can also check with other parents or coaches involved with the team to confirm the fundraiser's authenticity.
"Before handing over any money, take the time to ask questions, verify the organization's credentials, and understand where your donation is actually going," the MPD spokesperson advised. "A legitimate fundraiser will be transparent and happy to provide you with the necessary information."
If you believe you have been a victim of this scam or have any information that could assist the investigation, you are urged to contact the Muscatine Police Department at their non-emergency number. Even seemingly insignificant details could prove valuable in helping authorities identify and apprehend those involved. The MPD is committed to protecting the community and ensuring that those who prey on the goodwill of others are brought to justice.
Details surrounding the exact nature of the scam remain limited as the investigation is ongoing. However, police reports suggest that individuals may be falsely representing themselves as affiliated with a local youth baseball team or organization. These individuals are allegedly soliciting donations or selling fundraising items under false pretenses, with the promised funds not reaching the intended beneficiaries – the young athletes and their team.
“We are taking these reports very seriously,” stated a spokesperson for the Muscatine Police Department. “It’s disheartening to see individuals exploiting the community’s generosity and love for youth sports for their own personal gain. We encourage anyone who has been approached or has information regarding this alleged scam to come forward.”
The MPD is advising residents to exercise caution when approached for donations or fundraising efforts, especially if the solicitor is unfamiliar or lacks proper identification. They recommend verifying the legitimacy of the fundraising campaign by contacting the baseball team's official organization or league directly. Residents can also check with other parents or coaches involved with the team to confirm the fundraiser's authenticity.
"Before handing over any money, take the time to ask questions, verify the organization's credentials, and understand where your donation is actually going," the MPD spokesperson advised. "A legitimate fundraiser will be transparent and happy to provide you with the necessary information."
If you believe you have been a victim of this scam or have any information that could assist the investigation, you are urged to contact the Muscatine Police Department at their non-emergency number. Even seemingly insignificant details could prove valuable in helping authorities identify and apprehend those involved. The MPD is committed to protecting the community and ensuring that those who prey on the goodwill of others are brought to justice.
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