John K

Douglas County residents are receiving phone calls claiming they missed jury duty, and they owe a fine or face immediate arrest. This is widespread fraud scamming victims out of millions of dollars. Real court, federal, and law enforcement officials will NEVER ask you to withdraw cash, pay over the phone, use gift cards, use payment apps such as Venmo, PayPal, or Zelle, or deposit money into cryptocurrency ATMs. ✨️ How the Scam Works✨️ Impersonation: The caller pretends to be a local police officer, sheriff's deputy, or U.S. Marshal. Law enforcement phone numbers may be spoofed. Intimidation: They claim you missed a summons, violated the law, or have an active arrest warrant. They tell you there is a gag order and not to hang up. Fake Proof: They may follow up with spoofed caller IDs or text/email fake arrest documents. Demands: They pressure you to pay an immediate "fine" using payment apps, wire transfers, gift cards, cash deposits into cryptocurrency ATMs. Identity Theft: They frequently ask for Social Security Numbers, copies of driver's licenses, balances in bank accounts, and account numbers. 🚩 Red Flags to Watch For🚩 Phone Demands: Courts communicate via U.S. mail for official matters and NEVER call to demand payment. Arrest Threats: Real officers will not call to warn you about an impending arrest or threaten you to stay on the line. Unusual Payment Methods: Government agencies do not accept gift cards, cryptocurrency, or payment apps. If you receive a call like this, HANG UP and call the Douglas County Sheriff's Office immediately at (303) 660-7500. Do not provide any personal information or send money through any means.