Lebanon, IN – The Boone County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a rise in phone scams where callers impersonate deputies and demand electronic bond payments. Authorities say the fraudulent calls have led some residents to send money through apps such as Cash App or Venmo to “secure a release” or “cancel a warrant.”
According to the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are telling people to transfer funds electronically for bond payments or to prevent arrest. In some cases, victims are promised that a loved one will be released or an ankle monitor removed after payment. Officials stress that these calls are not legitimate.
The department reminds the public that it does not accept bond payments through Cash App, Venmo, Zelle, or similar platforms. All legitimate bond payments must be made in person at the jail or through AllPaid, the county’s authorized payment system. Deputies will also never call to demand money for warrants or release.
Residents who receive such calls are urged to hang up immediately and report the incident to the Indiana Attorney General’s Office or the Federal Trade Commission. Victims can also contact the Boone County Sheriff’s Office at (765) 482-1412, option 4.
Authorities ask locals to stay vigilant and verify all payment requests before taking action to help stop the spread of these scams.
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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