Oakland County, Michigan – Authorities are warning residents and business owners across the Detroit metro area about a fundraising scam allegedly targeting goodwill donations for a fake summer camp for children with special needs.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, detectives are seeking victims after discovering a scheme promoting a so-called “2026 Camp Explosion,” which officials say does not exist. The flyer claims donations of $150 for one child or $400 per family, but investigators say the campaign is fraudulent.
Sheriff Michael Bouchard said the scam has primarily targeted business owners in Oakland and neighboring Wayne County, including a Pontiac restaurant owner who allegedly lost $150 on Wednesday, April 23, believing the donation would help send a child to camp.
Authorities say the flyer includes a website, phone number, and contact name, “Mrs. Alex,” but investigators determined the website is inactive and the phone number is linked to a legitimate financial services business unrelated to any camp.
Detectives report the business tied to the phone number receives multiple calls weekly from concerned individuals and warns callers the campaign is a scam. Officials believe a female suspect has allegedly been soliciting donations across the region.
“People that seek to violate the goodwill and generosity of caring people for their own enrichment must be held accountable,” Bouchard said in a statement.
Anyone who may have been targeted or victimized is urged to contact the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities say additional reports could help strengthen potential charges as the investigation continues.
