Pittsville Police Warn of Youth Sports Sponsor Scam

Pittsville, MD - The Pittsville Police Department is asking local businesses to be careful when someone asks for money to sponsor a youth sports team. Police say a man has been going to businesses asking for sponsorship money for a youth baseball or softball team.

Police have identified the man as Pasco Leroy Allen III. He is wanted by the Pittsville Police Department in connection with a theft involving a local business.

Allen reportedly goes by the names "Pat Allen" and "Patrick Allen." Police say he tells business owners that he is the manager of a youth baseball or softball team.

He is described as a white man in his mid-50s. He has short brown and gray hair and a receding hairline.

According to police, Allen allegedly asks businesses to pay for a team sponsorship. In return, he promises to put the business name on the team jerseys.

Police say some businesses paid him but never received the sponsorship they paid for. Allen reportedly has no ties to any real youth sports league.

Business owners who gave him money have tried to reach him by phone. Police say he has not returned those calls.

Allen is also reportedly wanted by law enforcement in Worcester County. Police say that case involves similar alleged offenses.

Sponsoring a local youth team is a common way for businesses to support kids in our community. Because of this case, police are asking owners and managers to take a few extra steps before handing over any money.

Police say businesses should check the identity of anyone asking for a sponsorship on their own. They should also make sure the team truly belongs to a real youth sports group or league.

Police also suggest asking for the sponsorship details in writing. Before paying, take the time to check the group's contact information.

If something about a request cannot be confirmed, police say to be cautious. It is better to wait and check than to lose money to someone who is not who they say they are.

Anyone who recognizes Allen or knows where he might be is asked to contact the Pittsville Police Department or their local law enforcement agency. Police also want to hear from anyone who believes they may have been a victim of this alleged scheme.

Disclosure: All individuals mentioned in this article are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Eastern Shore Undercover® does not express or imply any opinion regarding the incident reported.