Salem, OR – The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a new phone scam involving individuals impersonating law enforcement officers, including a real sheriff’s sergeant.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, scammers have been using the name “Sergeant Jeremy Schwab” in recent calls to demand payment or threaten legal action. Officials emphasize that while a deputy with that name does exist, he will never call, text, or message residents asking for money under any circumstances.
In the scam, callers reportedly use the number (503) 967-3246 and may spoof legitimate county phone lines, including (503) 588-5094, to appear authentic. The scammers typically claim a missed court date or jury duty, tell victims not to hang up, and demand immediate payment via gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or prepaid debit cards.
The Sheriff’s Office reminds residents that it never requests payment over the phone or by text. Anyone receiving such a call or message should hang up and contact the agency’s non-emergency line at 503-588-5032 to verify.
Officials urge residents to share this warning to help protect family and neighbors from fraud attempts circulating across the county.
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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