Hanover, VA – Residents across Hanover County are being warned today about a surge in fraudulent phone calls from scammers pretending to be members of the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, including someone claiming to be “Sergeant Ayers,” officials announced.
According to the sheriff’s office, a significant number of residents reported receiving calls demanding immediate payment for allegedly missing jury duty or a court appearance. In several cases, the caller ID displayed the sheriff’s office name and number — a tactic known as spoofing that makes the call appear legitimate.
Deputies emphasized that the agency will never call residents to request money, prepaid cards, or any form of payment over the phone. “If you receive a call like this, hang up immediately,” the department advised in its announcement.
The sheriff’s office is urging residents to remain cautious, especially when receiving unexpected calls involving threats of arrest, missed jury duty, or urgent demands for money. Anyone unsure about the legitimacy of a call is encouraged to contact the non-emergency line at 804-365-6140 for verification.
The alert comes amid a nationwide rise in jury duty scams, which often target older adults or individuals unfamiliar with court procedures. Officials stress that legitimate jury duty notifications are handled through mailed documentation, not urgent phone calls.
Residents throughout Hanover County, including communities near Ashland, Mechanicsville, and the greater Richmond metro area, are encouraged to share the warning with friends and family to help prevent further victimization.
Anyone who has already provided personal or financial information to a scam caller should report the incident immediately.
