The following public safety summary information from the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office Patrol Division is provided to residents as a public service. These highlights from Nov. 3 to Nov. 9, 2008, do not reflect all incidents handled or investigated by the HCSO during this time period.

In addition to the law enforcement services it provides throughout the county, the HCSO provides primary patrol services for the communities of Hassan Township, Greenfield, Medicine Lake and Fort Snelling, as well as the Hennepin County portions of Hanover and Rockford.

Corcoran

On Nov. 7, HCSO deputies responded to an address in the 9700 block of Lilypond Lane to assist Corcoran Police Department with a medical. A 26-year-old woman who had taken an overdose of pills with alcohol was found. North Ambulance transported her to Fairview Riverside Hospital.

On Nov. 7, HCSO deputies responded to an address in the 20700 block of 70th Avenue to assist Corcoran Police Department with a medical. A 31-year-old pregnant woman was having a seizure. North Ambulance arrived to check the woman. She was no longer having the seizure and the woman's mother transported her to the hospital.

Greenfield

On Nov. 3, HCSO deputies responded to an address in the 7700 block of Pioneer Trail for a theft report. The 45-year-old homeowner reported someone cut off his catalytic converter from his pickup. A Hennepin County Sheriff's detective is investigating the incident.

On Nov. 4, HCSO deputies responded to an address in the 6300 block of Lake Sarah Heights Drive for a theft report. The 33-year-old homeowner reported his neighbor took a 110lb boulder from his yard. The homeowner had video of the theft. A Hennepin County Sheriff's detective is investigating the incident.

On Nov. 7, HCSO deputies responded to an address in the 7700 block of Pioneer Trail for a possible scam report. The 45-year-old man reported receiving a letter and check in the mail requesting him to cash it and send the majority back, believing it is a possible scam. A Hennepin County Sheriff's detective is investigating the incident.

On Nov. 8, HCSO deputies responded to an address in the 8000 block of Hwy. 55 for a theft report. The 49-year-old woman reported someone had stolen gas from her minivan that was parked outside overnight. A Hennepin County Sheriff's detective is handling the follow-up.

Other

During the week of Nov. 3 to Nov. 9, 2008, HCSO patrol deputies also issued or provided: 27 citations, 50 written/verbal warnings, 63 house/business checks, one motorist assist, five property damage accidents and one personal injury accident.

Sheriff Richard W. Stanek and the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office wish to remind all residents that are many very good, worthwhile charities seeking donations from the public every year.

There are also many people who will try and scam you out of your hard earned money by pretending to do charity work. Please follow these tips to avoid being the victim of a charity scam.

If you're approached by an unfamiliar charity, check it out. Most states require charities to register with them and file annual reports showing how they use donations. Ask your state or local consumer protection agency how to get this information.

Be cautious about emails seeking charitable contributions. Many unsolicited email messages are fraudulent.

Beware of sound-alikes. Some crooks try to fool people by using names that are very similar to those of well-known charities.

Ask how donations are used. One of the most important things to consider is how much of your money goes to fundraising and administrative costs, rather than to the charitable work itself.

Be especially cautious when there are natural or other disasters. Fraudulent charities take advantage of those situations to trick people who want to help the victims. If you're not sure whether a charity is legitimate, check it out with the state department of commerce or the BBB before you donate.

If you think you have been the victim of a charity scam, please call your police or sheriff.