Lompoc police knock down fake letter requiring those who receive state benefits to get tested for COVID-19

LOMPOC, Calif. - The Lompoc Police Department was informed of a fraudulent letter that had been circulating in the community ordering those who receive state assistance benefits to get tested for COVID-19 in order to continue receiving their benefits.

Police said the letter also claims that if someone tests positive for COVID-19, their children may be removed from their home and placed in foster care.

Officers confirmed that all of the signatures and seals on the letter are indeed fraudulent and that none of its contents are true.

The CA Department of Social Services has also confirmed that the letter is fake, explaining that it contains references to the Merced County Human Services Agency and is circulating on social media.

The Department said both the letter and the website listed in the letter are fake.

Social Services said it has notified county authorities of the letter so that they can investigate.

They also confirmed that "State departments and county human services departments NEVER will ask about your health status in connection to an application for benefits. Similarly, children must be subject to abuse or neglect to enter foster care. Children cannot be put into foster care just because a parent may be ill."

If anyone else receives this letter, they are advised to just ignore it.

Anyone with information about the source of the letter and anyone with questions or concerns about the authenticity of the letter can contact the Department of Social Services at (916) 651-8848 or piar@dss.ca.gov.