Elmira, NY – The Chemung County Sheriff’s Office is cautioning residents about a scam in which callers are impersonating law enforcement officers and demanding money for alleged arrest warrants.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, multiple residents have reported receiving calls from an individual falsely identifying himself as Sergeant Jim Ritter of the department. The caller allegedly tells victims they have a warrant for their arrest and must pay immediately to avoid being taken into custody.
Authorities said the scammer instructs victims to purchase prepaid money cards from stores such as Dollar General or Family Dollar. Once the cards are obtained, the caller directs the victims to read the codes on the back over the phone, giving the scammer access to the funds.
Officials emphasized that these calls are fraudulent. “No member of the Sheriff’s Office contacts the public under these circumstances demanding money,” the release stated. Residents are urged not to share personal or financial information over the phone and never to send payment to anyone claiming to be law enforcement in such situations.
The Sheriff’s Office is asking residents who receive these scam calls to hang up immediately and, if possible, report the incident. Victims who may have already provided money are encouraged to contact the Chemung County Sheriff’s Criminal Investigation Division at 607-737-2933.
Sheriff William A. Schrom stressed that the department is aware of the scam and working to prevent further victimization.
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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