News Release
Date & Time: 02-18-2026 / 10:30 am
Location: Odell, Nebraska
Offense: E-Mail Scam
Case# 2026-0697
DETAILS:
On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the Gage County Sheriff’s Office was notified by Pastor Gregory Stuckwisch of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Odell that his staff and several church members had received an email, purportedly from him, asking for people to buy gift cards for his staff and to keep the matter confidential. He never authorized this email or action and the email address the request came from is not his.
At this time, no one is reporting any loss, however it is likely the suspect/s would request the redemption information from the gift cards when any victim agreed to help. The money from that gift card would then be sent to a bank account and transferred several times and eventually be sent to accounts overseas.
This is a reminder that everyone should practice cyber security and be aware of phishing / spear phishing and other types of scams. This can affect churches, businesses, schools, government agencies, and personal accounts.
Always remember to verify information and requests via a trusted source and do not succumb to demands for secrecy or urgency. If you have an issue, report it to law enforcement via Southeast Communications at 402-223-4080 xO.
Sergeant T. Hanson #90310
Sheriff Millard “Gus” Gustafson #903