Monday, December 3, 2007

Editorial: Making the Grinch look good

It takes a special breed of criminal to use the name of a children’s home as part of a scam to line his own pockets.

That’s what Statesville police have charged Tony Lee Baynard with doing.Baynard, 47, is accused of ripping off at least three people by claiming he was collecting money for the Barium Springs Home for Children. He was not authorized to solicit donations for the nonprofit and never gave the organization any money.

This is the time of year when generous people like to share their good fortune by helping those who need a hand up. And there are plenty of local organizations who can turn those contributions into a better life for someone who is down and out.

It’s also the time of year when con artists are on the prowl trying to make a few bucks the easy way.

Don’t let the type of crime Tony Lee Baynard is accused of perpetrating deter you from helping others this holiday season. Most legitimate charitable organizations refrain from door-to-door soliciting.

You can protect yourself by contacting the nonprofits you want to support directly and asking how to give.

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