Woburn, MA – The Middlesex Sheriff’s Office (MSO) is warning Massachusetts residents about a new scam involving fake judicial documents, “Preemptive Bail” notices, and supposed “digital currency” payment methods.
According to the MSO, criminals posing as law enforcement have contacted residents claiming they have outstanding warrants for failing to appear in court. In several cases, the scammers sent what looked like arrest warrants via text, alleging charges such as contempt of court and failure to appear. Victims were pressured to pay fines of up to $5,000 to avoid arrest.
In one instance, scammers mailed documents claiming residents could post a “Preemptive Bail” to “avert apprehension.” The documents falsely stated that payments could be made at gas stations or grocery stores. Another fake letter claimed the “White House Administration” had approved digital currency for court bonds—an entirely fabricated claim.
Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian emphasized that no court or law enforcement agency handles payments this way. “There is no such thing as preemptive bail,” he said. “We will never ask you to pay fines at a gas station, and the courts do not accept digital currency.”
Residents receiving such messages are urged to report them immediately to local law enforcement or call the MSO’s Inner Perimeter Security Unit at 781-960-2800 or 978-667-1711.
The MSO is also offering scam prevention sessions for local organizations across Middlesex County. Details are available online.
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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