Bloomington, IL – Residents across McLean County are being warned of a new phone scam in which callers impersonate the Sheriff’s Office, officials announced this week.
According to the McLean County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are spoofing the department’s phone number, 309-888-5034, and falsely telling residents they have missed a court date or jury duty. The callers allegedly claim a warrant has been issued and pressure victims to pay fines or disclose personal information over the phone.
“This is a scam,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a public alert. “We will never call you requesting money or asking you to handle official police business, such as a warrant, over the phone.” Officials emphasized that deputies do not give warrant information over the phone and will never request financial transactions from residents.
Authorities advise anyone who receives such a call to hang up immediately and not engage with the caller. If residents believe they may have an active warrant, they are urged to visit the Sheriff’s Office in person at 104 W. Front Street in Bloomington to verify.
The department reminded the public not to provide personal details or payments during unsolicited calls. Anyone targeted by the scam should report it directly to the McLean County Sheriff’s Office.
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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