Surveyors or scammers? Police investigate - WCAX.COM Local Vermont News, Weather and Sports-

Surveyors or scammers? Police investigate

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ST. JOHNSBURY, Vt. -

Parents thought they were DCF impostors claiming to investigate allegations of child abuse. Now police say the whole situation might be a misunderstanding.

The Vermont State Police in St. Johnsbury said there are two businesses currently conducting door-to-door surveys in Vermont -- one on home health care and the other on early childhood development. The surveyors have badges and are asking some parents to let them inside to talk about these issues.

Police are investigating if that's who two Walden parents may have mistaken for fake DCF workers over the weekend. They said the man and woman -- and their car -- may match the description of a pair of surveyors working in the area. Police said no one tried to remove children from the home.

The incident was reported to the Walden neighborhood watch and made its way onto Facebook before police had a chance to investigate. They believe details may have been exaggerated as they passed person to person.

Police are now checking with the survey companies to see if they may have had workers in the area in December, when other complaints surfaced. Police said these people are doing legitimate work but that residents don't need to let them in their homes.

If someone comes to your door, get their name and credentials. If they are making you uncomfortable, close your door and call police.

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