The decision was made because of the growing number of scams using the agency name and logo, Call 6's Rafael Sanchez reported.

Officials with the Indiana State Police Alliance said they have a legitimate group, and that the new rule will hurt many people.

"We thought it was a bit of an over-reaction. Through some talking we can come to a compromise, because it could shut us down," Alliance spokesman Kenny Davis said.

Davis said the group depends on telemarketing or direct mail donations to help with several of its programs, including the statewide toy giveaways during the holidays and covering the funeral expenses of officers killed in the line of duty.

"If you can not tell them that you are an Indiana State Police or you represent them, obivously they may not donate," Davis said.

Tuesday, Attorney General Steve Carter announced a lawsuit against Indianapolis-based Phipps & Associates, and Indiana Outreach/Phipps, Inc., for allegedly using "outright fabrications" while canvassing for donations.

Call 6 checked state records and found that between 1998 and 2003 Phipps & Associates raised $2.4 million for the state police group, but the group received around $542,000 -- around 22 cents of every dollar donated.

The association of Indiana State Troopers released a statement to Call 6 Wednesday with responses to several questions regarding who they support and more.

Click here to read the unedited response.

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