Church Ripoffs
By: LaTonya Stephens
Updated: October 23, 2007
The Vanderburgh County Sheriffs office is investigating a Kentucky man they say is ripping off local churches.
A bench warrant is currently being issued for 38 year old Michael Scott of Slaughters, KY.. accusing him of theft by deception.
For more than two weeks, Vanderburgh county sheriff deputies say Scott scammed churches in Gibson, Warrick and Vanderburgh county with false claims.
Among them were stories of needing money for gas to get to another state, while others included family members involved in an accident.
Reverend Robert Deig says Scott stopped by St. John the Evangelist Catholic church, receiving money at least four times.. that is until the reverend says he finally caught on.
He says Scott came back last Friday to his house and told him his wife passed away.
He says that when he called 911.
Police say Scotts wife Stephanie was also present during the crimes, but they believe it was Michael Scott who asked for the money.
Stephanie will not be charged.
