Kanawha County, West Virginia – Kanawha County residents are being targeted in a jail payment scam, prompting a sheriff warning.
According to a Facebook post from the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are allegedly using online inmate records to identify individuals currently incarcerated. They then call family members pretending to be a loved one in jail, claiming a “Pretrial Diversion Fee” must be paid immediately to avoid an additional 60 to 90 days behind bars.
Authorities emphasized that the demand for urgent phone payment is the scam.
The Sheriff’s Office said courts and jails do not request payments through gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, Cash App, Venmo, or other peer-to-peer payment platforms. Callers often pressure victims to act immediately and may attempt to keep them on the phone while arranging payment.
Officials advise anyone who receives such a call to hang up immediately and avoid sending money.
Residents who believe they have been targeted can contact the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office directly at 304-357-0169 to verify claims.
Law enforcement officials noted that scammers frequently exploit publicly available booking information to make their calls appear legitimate.
The warning is particularly relevant for families of inmates, college students, and young workers who may respond quickly to urgent financial requests.
Authorities continue to urge the public to verify any unexpected payment demand directly with official agencies before taking action.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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