Chapel Hill, Carrboro Police Warn of English Course Scam

Chapel Hill, N.C. — Police in Chapel Hill and Carrboro are warning about a scam involving English courses for Spanish-speaking residents.

Authorities said the perpetrators are offering an English course called “Ingles para Todos.” Police said they may also state that they are working for a company called Interlingual of America, Inc.

Authorities said people are going door-to-door in neighborhoods with Hispanic residents. The victim is told that he or she has won a free English course. At a later date, additional materials, including workbooks and recorded media are taken to him and he is told that he is required to pay.

Police said when the victim said he does not want the course, he is told he will be arrested if he does not pay. Authorities said some victims have paid up to $1,200.

Authorities are distributing flyers in Hispanic neighborhoods warning about the scam and encouraging victims to report any incidents to the police.

If anyone has information about this case, you are asked to contact Chapel Hill police at 919-968-2760 or Carrboro police at 919-918-7397.