Cumberland County, TN – Residents are being warned today about an active phone scam targeting the Cumberland County community, with callers falsely claiming to represent the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, several citizens have reported receiving phone calls from a man claiming to be “Sgt. Zach Ellis” from the agency’s so-called “Civil Warrant Division.” Officials stressed that no such employee exists and that the calls are fraudulent.
Authorities say scammers are also using the real names of current and former sheriff’s office employees to appear legitimate. Reports received today indicate callers have falsely identified themselves as Sgt. Dustin, former Deputy Tim Tutor, Investigator Gary Howard, and Lt. Gary Howard. In multiple cases, victims were urged to call back on a so-called “private line.”
The sheriff’s office emphasized that none of these callers are affiliated with law enforcement.
Officials are reminding the public of several key facts to help identify the scam. The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office will never call residents demanding payment for civil warrants, missed court dates, fines, or fees. Law enforcement will also never request payment over the phone using gift cards, prepaid cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
Authorities also warn that caller ID information can be spoofed, making scam calls appear to come from legitimate law enforcement phone numbers.
Anyone who receives one of these calls is urged to hang up immediately and not share any personal or financial information. Residents who believe they may have been targeted are encouraged to report the incident to local authorities.
Officials say public awareness is critical as scammers continue to use fear and urgency to pressure victims into sending money.
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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