Houston County, GA – Residents across Houston County are being warned to stay alert after reports of scammers impersonating law enforcement officers and threatening arrest unless immediate payment is made.
According to the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are contacting victims by phone or message, falsely claiming there is an active warrant for their arrest. The callers often demand immediate payment for fines, bonds, or electronic monitoring fees, using fear and urgency to pressure victims into complying.
Officials emphasized that no law enforcement agency in Houston County—or anywhere else—will ever request payment over the phone. Authorities also say they will never ask for payment using gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or prepaid cards.
The Sheriff’s Office outlined several common warning signs residents should watch for, including urgent demands for immediate payment, threats of arrest or account closure, requests for personal or banking information, and messages that appear to come from government agencies. Scammers may also instruct victims to meet in parking lots of sheriff’s offices or detention centers, which officials say is another red flag.
Residents are urged to slow down and avoid acting out of panic. Authorities recommend hanging up immediately if a suspicious call is received and verifying any claims independently by contacting the Sheriff’s Office directly using an official phone number.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted by a scam is encouraged to report the incident immediately. The Houston County Sheriff’s Office can be reached at (478) 542-2125.
Officials are asking residents to share the warning with friends and family, particularly elderly relatives who are often targeted in impersonation 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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