Lexington, SC – Deputies in Lexington County are warning residents today about a resurgence in phone scams after a local woman reported receiving a fraudulent call claiming she had missed jury duty.
According to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, scammers are again posing as law-enforcement officials and attempting to pressure victims into making immediate payments. The department released a video Friday showing an interaction with a resident who said she was contacted by someone who claimed she faced arrest unless she paid a fine.
Deputies emphasized that no agency in South Carolina will ever demand payment over the phone, nor will officers request gift cards, prepaid cards, or bank transfers to resolve legal matters. In the video, the woman describes being caught off guard by the caller’s urgent tone before realizing the situation didn’t add up.
Investigators say these scams often spoof legitimate phone numbers, making the call appear official. The sheriff’s office is urging residents to end the call immediately, block the number, and contact law enforcement if they receive similar messages. Officials stress that ignoring the call will never put anyone at risk of arrest.
The department also encouraged families to speak with older relatives, who are frequently targeted because scammers rely on fear and confusion to coerce payments. Deputies advise residents to avoid sharing personal information over the phone and to independently verify any suspicious claims by calling the agency directly.
Anyone who believes they were targeted or lost money in a scam is asked to file a report with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department or the South Carolina Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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