Tempe police warn buyers of stereo speaker scam

TEMPE, AZ - It's a scam that's been around for years, but Tempe police are warning people to watch out for salesmen passing off poor quality products as high-end merchandise.

The salesmen often approach their targets claiming to be home stereo installers. They claim to have extra high-end speakers they have to get rid of.

The salesmen suggest the speakers are worth upwards of $1,000 but offer steep discounts. 

Customers can cough up more than $400 cash for the speakers thinking they are getting a good deal.

When the buyer gets the speakers home, they find they've been scammed.

They usually find low quality mechandise inside. Sand has also been found in some units.

Tom Gautier found out the hard way to steer clear of the speaker salesmen after spending $400.

"He explained to me they were a wireless speaker system worth around $1,900. When we opened it up, we found they were very inferior speakers," Gautier said.

Police suggest people purchase goods from reputable dealers.

"If you're not looking for speakers and somebody just happens to find you in a parking lot and says, 'Hey do you want to buy some speakers,' it is not your lucky day," Tempe police Sgt. Steve Carbajal said.