Stillwater, MN – The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam involving fake federal court documents and callers falsely claiming to be members of local law enforcement.
According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, a resident recently received counterfeit documents after being contacted by someone identifying themselves as “Sgt. David Wayne” with the sheriff’s office. Officials said no deputy or sergeant by that name is employed by the agency.
The fraudulent paperwork includes documents designed to resemble official federal court forms, including a fake warrant and a “legal advisory.” Authorities say the materials are intended to convince victims they face immediate arrest unless they comply with the caller’s demands.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that it will never call and demand immediate payment to avoid arrest. Officials also reminded the public that warrants, bonds, or fines cannot be paid over the phone or through gift cards, cryptocurrency, payment apps, or similar methods.
If you receive a call claiming you have an active warrant or owe money to avoid arrest, the sheriff’s office recommends:
- Hang up immediately.
- Do not send money or provide personal or financial information.
- Contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office using its official publicly listed phone number to verify the claim.
Law enforcement agencies across the country continue to report similar impersonation scams in which criminals use fake badges, forged documents, and spoofed phone numbers to pressure victims into making immediate payments.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by this scam is encouraged to report the incident to their local law enforcement agency and avoid engaging further with the caller.
