Barrington Police have identified a suspect in an apparent fund-raising scheme that is tied to the local police union. 

According to a press release from the department, a former employee for the fund-raising company was responsible for the scheme. Police said the former employee for TCI America was telling potential donors that money raised for the local police union would benefit the Lane family of Barrington. Christine Lane and her teenage son Spencer were killed in late January in a plane crash in Washington D.C. 

"At no time did any member of the Barrington Police union authorize TCI America or any of their employees to use the Lane Family to encourage a donation. TCI America is cooperating with the investigation," stated the release.

Barrington Police said the investigation has identified a suspect. Police believe the "scheme" is limited to the suspect, who is a former TCI America employee. 

Barrington Police learned about the “scheme” on Friday, Feb. 21 when officials from Temple Habonim called police to report a suspicious fund-raising solicitation. Temple officials told police that an employee of TCI America spoke with the Temple administrator and the Rabbi and asked for a donation on behalf of the Barrington Police union and referenced the Lane Family.

A short time later, Barrington Police opened an investigation — they also contacted the Rhode Island Attorney General’s office. Police said they have identified two donations linked to the use of the Lane family. 

Barrington Police officials said the department will make every effort to return all donations obtained by the “scheme.”

“We have identified additional victims and will continue to identify and contact any other victims in an effort to determine the full scope of the ‘scheme,’” the release stated.

Anyone who believes they were victims of this “scheme” should contact the Barrington Police Department at 401-437-3930.

“If probable cause exists to believe a crime has occurred, we will be charging any and all persons involved,” stated the release.

In a recent interview, Barrington Police Chief Michael Correia said it is commonplace for unions to hire outside companies to assist with fund-raising efforts.