Dayton, OH – Authorities are warning residents across Montgomery County about a scam that is reportedly targeting families with urgent and alarming claims involving alleged arrests and bond payments.
According to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, the scam has been circulating today through text messages and phone calls from individuals allegedly posing as deputies. Victims are told a friend or family member has been arrested and needs immediate financial assistance to secure release on bond. The callers reportedly use real names and, in some cases, claim knowledge of individuals currently in custody to appear credible.
Officials say the scammers allegedly instruct victims to visit local retail stores and send money using barcode-based payment systems. Once the transaction is completed, the funds are immediately accessed and allegedly stolen, leaving victims with little recourse.
The messages and calls are designed to create urgency, pressuring individuals to act quickly without verifying the information. Authorities emphasized that the sheriff’s office does not contact residents by phone or text to request bond payments, nor does it direct individuals to retail locations for financial transactions.
“Scammers are constantly finding new ways to prey on people’s trust and fear,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “We want every resident to know that our office will never contact you asking for bond money.”
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and independently verify any claims involving arrests or financial demands. Law enforcement advises contacting official agencies directly using verified phone numbers rather than responding to unsolicited messages.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted or may have fallen victim to the scam is encouraged to report the incident to local law enforcement immediately.
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