Louisville police warn of fake online fundraisers after detective's death

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Louisville Metro Police are warning the public about a scam involving fake fundraising accounts that claim to benefit the family of a beloved officer who recently passed away.

Detective Michelle Rusch died from cancer earlier this week. In her final moments, fellow officers and loved ones lined a hospital walkway to honor her with a final salute.

Now, as the department mourns her loss, scammers are targeting those who simply want to help.

The Louisville Metro Police Foundation was created to provide financial support to officers and their families. But recently, someone created fake Venmo accounts, and some donations landed in the hands of scammers.

Deputy Chief Emily McKinley said the fraud started shortly after Rusch’s death.

“In just the last 24 hours, there have been fake Venmo accounts and fake fundraising accounts,” McKinley said. “Please go to the Police Foundation website if you would like to donate.”

Several pages have surfaced online falsely claiming to raise money for Rusch’s funeral and other causes tied to the department.

Sherry Willen with the Louisville Metro Police Foundation said the safest way to donate is directly through the foundation’s official website. Rusch has a dedicated page there, and all verified donations will go directly to her husband and three children.

“We know that she really wanted to be remembered for everything she had done in the community,” Willen said. “Now they’re missing that additional income, and he will need some help in the future to support the children.”

Rusch was known for her compassion and her commitment to protecting vulnerable children.

“It is heartbreaking, and it is going to leave a hole in this community that she’s no longer here fighting for children,” Willen said.

The scam warning extends beyond Louisville. In Pewee Valley, Police Chief Steve Healey — a retired LMPD assistant chief — recently released a public service announcement warning about charity scams.

“We’ve gotten invites for that. We’ve gotten invites for various so-called law enforcement charity groups,” Healey said. “They go after things that touch your feelings or emotions.”

Officials urge people not to trust donation links sent via text or social media and to verify any fundraising page before giving.

For a direct link to the Louisville Metro Police Foundation’s verified donation page for Detective Rusch, click here.

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