23-year-old Daniel Mielcarek told victims that he was a University of North Carolina at Wilmington student who was collecting donations and selling books on behalf of Duke Children's Hospital. The incidents occurred in northwest Wake County on Dutch Creek Drive and Riesling Place in Cary.
The Sheriff's Office believes that other people are involved in this scam and warns residents to be careful about door-to-door solicitations. If a resident is approached by someone claiming to solicit funds for Duke Children's Hospital, please call the Sheriff's Office at 919.856.6800.
"Citizens are the eyes and ears of their neighborhoods," Sheriff Harrison said, "They know who belongs in their neighborhood and who does not. If there is any question about someone selling anything door to door, do not hesitate to ask for documentation and for a contact number to verify their identification. If you still have doubts, call 911. In a incident such as the one that occurred yesterday, vehicle description, tag number, and a description of the suspect (s) are always helpful to investigators."
Mielcarek has been arrested and charged with obtaining property by false pretense. His bond is set at $30,000.
