Lake County, IN – Lake County residents are being urged to stay vigilant after reports of new scams involving individuals impersonating sheriff’s department employees and demanding fraudulent payments for phony warrants and jail bonds.
According to a warning posted Tuesday by the Lake County Sheriff’s Department, scammers have recently contacted residents by phone and email, pretending to be employees of the department or the Lake County Jail. The fraudsters allegedly demand immediate payment for warrants or jail bonds, sometimes requesting payment through gift cards, bitcoin machines, or by meeting in person.
The Sheriff’s Department emphasized that it will never contact individuals by phone or email regarding warrants, nor will it ask for payment over the phone or request payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency. Any such requests should be treated as scams.
Authorities advise that if you receive any call, text, or email demanding payment or sensitive information under the threat of legal action, do not provide any personal information and do not agree to meet anyone in person for such transactions. According to Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr., “once these criminals have access to your funds, it can be almost impossible to recoup your losses.”
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious contacts to local law enforcement and remind friends and family members about the scam to prevent further victimization. Prevention, officials say, is key to protecting yourself and others from financial loss.
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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