Norwalk, OH – The Huron County Sheriff’s Office is warning landowners about a potential scam targeting residents in northern Ohio involving letters claiming to be connected to AT&T.
According to the sheriff’s office, Crawford County landowners have recently received letters from an individual identifying himself as Gary Rayward of Advanced Recovery Technologies, LLC (ART). The letters allegedly state ART was contracted by AT&T to remove a long-decommissioned 4-inch copper/lead line that runs from Bluffton to Medina. The utility line has reportedly been out of service for more than two decades but remains in the ground.
Authorities said the letters appeared unofficial and vague in nature. They reportedly outlined three options for landowners, two of which referenced potential crop damage and drainage tile replacement. A third option raised concern, offering to let the line remain in place if landowners paid $12 per foot of line located on their property. Officials noted that no formal correspondence had been received from AT&T regarding such a project.
The sheriff’s office confirmed it has contacted AT&T to verify the legitimacy of the letters but is still awaiting confirmation. In the meantime, authorities are urging landowners not to respond to any communications from Rayward or ART.
Residents who have received the letter are asked to report it by calling the Huron County Sheriff’s Office at 419-663-2828. Officials emphasized that public awareness is crucial in preventing potential financial exploitation of local property owners.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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