Police warn of phone scam using Milwaukee priest's name

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Police are warning people about a scammer pretending to be a Milwaukee Catholic priest to get money from parishioners.

According to Whitefish Bay Police, a church member reported getting a phone call from someone asking for help. The individual pretended to be Father Timothy Kitzke, pastor of Three Holy Women Parish on the east side.

The person on the other end of the phone requested they buy gift cards, and then wanted photographs of the cards, along with pin numbers sent to a cell phone number.

Unfortunately the church member fell for the scam.

“This person after all a sudden having given a rather hefty amount, said 'there's something,' called me and I said, 'I would never do that,"' Father Kitzke said.

He made the message clear during his homily. "If you receive any text or email from me asking you for something, do not respond. If I want something from you, I will call you directly."

Faithful followers said they're grateful to find out about the scam, so they won't be next. “Terrible that they're doing this,” said Rosalia Ferrante. “I'm glad they told us because if somebody calls, now we know."

Police advise whenever getting unsolicited phone calls, it's best to double check who you're sending money to.