Swampscott Police issue scam warnings

SWAMPSCOTT ? Swampscott Police are advising residents to expect delays on Paradise Road (Route 1A) due to utility work in the next several weeks.Police said via Twitter that the delays are from pre-planned utility work and will last for several weeks. The work will occur between Whole Foods and Parsons Road and Longwood Drive, according to police. Drivers are advised to seek alternate routes.Police also reminded residents of scams from unsolicited callers demanding money.Police reported responding to Stop & Shop on Tuesday where a resident told police a man had called her and said he was holding her brother hostage at gunpoint, according to a post from the department. The caller allegedly demanded a $3,000 and then $1,000 ransom. The caller ordered the resident to send the money via Western Union and remain on the phone until the money was received, police said.Police said officers explained the call was a scam and verified that the resident’s brother was OK. Police said residents have reported similar scams where a caller purports to be from the IRS and claims the recipient will be arrested unless he or she pays alleged back taxes.?If residents question any types of these calls, hang up and call Swampscott PD at 781-595-1111,” the post said.Police also reminded residents that updates from Swampscott Police can be emailed via the Nixle system. Visit swampscottpolice.com and click on the Nixle tab to register.