Cherokee County, GA – Families across Cherokee County are being warned Wednesday about a resurfacing phone scam in which callers falsely claim to be with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and demand money to release a jailed loved one.
According to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, officials have received multiple reports of scammers targeting relatives of recently incarcerated individuals. The callers allegedly tell families that immediate payment is required to prevent their loved one from remaining in jail for up to 120 days.
Authorities say the scammers often create urgency and fear, insisting that payment must be sent immediately to avoid harsher consequences. In several cases, victims were instructed to send money through mobile payment platforms such as Apple Pay or Chime.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that this is not how legitimate law enforcement operations work.
According to officials, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office will never call individuals to solicit money, request payment over the phone, or accept payments through mobile apps. Jail release or bond payments are not handled in this manner under any circumstances.
Residents are urged to hang up immediately if they receive such a call and not to send money or share any personal or financial information. Officials say scammers may use convincing language, spoofed phone numbers, or insider details to appear credible.
Law enforcement is asking residents in Cherokee County and the greater North Georgia area to share the warning, especially with family members who may be more vulnerable to urgent phone scams.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted or may have fallen victim to the scam is encouraged to contact local authorities and report the incident.
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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