Lee County, FL – Residents across Lee County are being warned to stay alert after reports of a phone scam resurfaced just ahead of the holiday season, targeting individuals with threats of arrest if immediate payment is not made.
According to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are calling residents while falsely claiming to be members of the agency and citing an “important legal matter.” The caller allegedly tells the recipient that failure to pay requested funds will result in a warrant being issued for their arrest.
Authorities stressed that the calls are fraudulent and are designed to pressure victims into sending money quickly, often before they have time to verify the information.
“This is a scam,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a public alert. Officials emphasized that deputies and staff will never contact individuals by phone to demand money, fines, or fees under any circumstances.
The scam appears to be circulating again during the holiday season, a time when officials say criminals often increase efforts due to higher financial stress and increased spending among residents. Similar scams have previously targeted seniors and individuals unfamiliar with how law enforcement agencies handle legitimate legal matters.
Residents who receive such calls are advised not to provide personal information, not to send money, and to hang up immediately. Officials also recommend warning family members, especially elderly relatives, who may be more vulnerable to scam attempts.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimized is urged to contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office fraud line at 239-258-3292. Even if no money was lost, reporting the call can help investigators track patterns and warn others in the community.
Officials continue to remind residents that legitimate law enforcement communication will not involve threats, gift cards, wire transfers, or urgent payment demands over the phone.
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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