Corvallis, OR – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is warning residents about a new scam targeting families of individuals currently held in the county jail.
According to the BCSO, multiple family members have reported receiving phone calls from scammers claiming their loved one could be released immediately if a $3,000 payment was made for an ankle monitor. The calls appear to be based on information pulled from the public jail roster, with scammers then contacting relatives or friends of those listed.
Officials stress these claims are entirely false. “We want to make it very clear — these calls are scams,” said Sheriff Van Arsdall. “Our staff will never contact a family member asking for money to release someone in custody.”
The sheriff’s office advises anyone receiving such calls to hang up immediately and report the incident. Benton County Jail does not process payments by phone or through third parties for any inmate release.
To protect yourself, BCSO recommends not sharing personal or financial information, verifying any claims by calling the Benton County Jail at 541-766-6866, and reporting scam calls to 541-766-6858.
BCSO thanked the community for staying alert and helping prevent fraudulent activity.
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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