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Arrests Door-to-Door Solicitors in Sunfish Lake

West St Paul Police Department

Arrests Door-to-Door Solicitors in Sunfish Lake

 

 

On 4/15/2010 3 at 5:10pm three individuals were arrested for soliciting without a permit. The three individuals were selling magazine subscriptions and did not have a permit which is required by city ordinance in the Sunfish Lake. The three solicitors were issued citations for soliciting without a permit 610.09 and disorderly conduct 609.72.

 

 

Every year West St. Paul Police Department receives several calls from concerned residents from Sunfish Lake regarding door to door solicitors.  Typically, solicitors are from out of state and are attempting to sell subscriptions to magazines or other products. Many times they can be aggressive and discourteous to the home owners in hopes that it will generate a sale.  There are many legitimate organizations that solicit door-to-door, either to sell or promote products, however, there is also a growing number of individuals who illegally solicit with the purpose of committing a crime. 

 

 

If someone is soliciting door to door in your neighborhood, please remember that:

  • A door to door solicitor must obtain a license from city council.
  • A solicitor must show a photo identification card and license number when asked by the resident , police officer or city employee.
  • A solicitor must leave when asked by the homeowner.
  • Take your time. Do some comparison shopping. A reputable salesperson will be willing to come back after you have done some comparison price shopping.
  • Be cautious about letting the salesperson into your home. A person who claims to be a salesperson may really be someone intending to burglarize your home or commit another crime. It is not unusual for a solicitor to ask to use your restroom or your phone, we recommend you to say no, for your safety.

 

A person may be a fraudulent solicitor if he/she:

  • Is out of compliance with the municipal code (lacks a city-issued ID.)                                      
  • Behaves aggressively, acts threatening, and tries to make you feel guilty for not wanting to buy what he/she is selling.
  • Pressures you for an immediate decision and demands cash only.
  • Pressures you into signing a contract on the spot. If you are signing a contract, READ THE CONTRACT THOROUGHLY.
  • Asks for bank account or social security numbers.
  • If you do make a purchase, do not make the check out to the individual but only to the company. Be cautious about giving out your credit card information. Make sure the company is a valid company to protect you from identity theft.

 

Just Remember:

“If it doesn't feel right you have the right to close the door and call the police”, Chief Bud Shaver