Newton County, IN – Residents across northwest Indiana are being urged to stay alert after a reported phone scam nearly cost a local victim more than $1,300, according to area law enforcement.
According to the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, a county resident recently reported receiving a highly sophisticated phone call falsely claiming that an individual was being released from custody and would be arriving at the victim’s home within an hour. The caller allegedly used fear and emotional pressure to create a sense of immediate danger.
Authorities said the caller then demanded payment for what was described as an “emergency protective order” and various so-called “tiers of safety programs.” The victim was instructed to make payments directly to individuals rather than through any official agency — a major red flag, investigators say.
The scam was shared publicly by the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office to help warn residents throughout the region, including Jasper County, Newton County, and surrounding northwest Indiana communities near the Chicago metro area.
Law enforcement officials stress that legitimate police departments, courts, or government agencies do not demand immediate payment over the phone, nor do they ask residents to disclose how much money they have available. Any call pressuring immediate action, secrecy, or payment should be considered suspicious.
Authorities advise anyone receiving similar calls to hang up immediately and report the incident to their local law enforcement agency. Even if no money is lost, reporting attempted scams helps police track trends and warn others before they become victims.
Residents, especially seniors and those living alone, are encouraged to share this warning with family members and neighbors.
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!
