Marion County, OR – The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about an ongoing phone scam involving callers impersonating sheriff’s deputies and demanding payment for fake fines or missed jury duty.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, several residents have reported receiving fraudulent calls claiming to be from deputies. The scammers often threaten arrest unless immediate payment is made through gift cards, Bitcoin, or other electronic methods.
Officials stress that the Sheriff’s Office will never request payment over the phone or through any untraceable form of currency. “We will not ask for gift cards, Bitcoin, or meet you in a parking lot or gas station to collect payments,” the department stated in its alert.
The office also warns that scammers are spoofing caller IDs to make it appear the calls are coming from the Sheriff’s Office—or even using the names of real employees. Anyone who receives a suspicious call is urged to hang up and contact the non-emergency line directly at 503-588-5032.
Common scam tactics include claims of “missed jury duty” or “active warrants.” The Sheriff’s Office reminds residents that missing jury duty does not result in an arrest warrant, and real deputies would not call to warn someone about one.
Residents are encouraged to stay alert, verify any unexpected calls, and share the warning with friends and family.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
