Lake County, IN – Authorities are warning residents today about an ongoing phone scam where callers impersonate sheriff’s deputies and demand money to clear fake arrest warrants.
According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Department, multiple residents reported receiving phone calls from individuals falsely claiming to be law enforcement officers. The callers allegedly told victims they had missed a court date or had an active arrest warrant, then pressured them into paying fees through wire transfers, gift cards, or even digital currency such as Bitcoin.
Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr. said scammers sometimes demand a few hundred dollars but may push for several thousand. “These criminals prey on fear and urgency,” he warned. “Our office will never call and demand money to clear your name or avoid arrest.”
Police in St. John also reported receiving similar complaints this week, suggesting the scheme is spreading across Northwest Indiana.
Authorities are urging residents to hang up immediately if they receive such a call, avoid making any payments, and protect personal information. Anyone targeted by the scam is encouraged to file a report with local law enforcement.
“This is a scam. Stay alert, protect yourself, and please notify police if you’ve been contacted,” Martinez added.
