Brookline, MA – Residents across Massachusetts are being urged to hang up immediately on unexpected calls from individuals claiming to be law enforcement after another local woman lost $1,500 to a fast-moving jury duty scam this week.
According to the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office, the latest case was reported Tuesday afternoon when a Brookline resident told officers she received a call from someone posing as a member of the sheriff’s office. The caller allegedly claimed she owed a “bond amount” to avoid arrest for missing jury duty.
Authorities say the scammer pressured the victim into sending $1,500 through Zelle and Apple Pay—two platforms frequently exploited in high-pressure fraud schemes. The woman was later referred to her bank and the Brookline Police Department to report the loss.
Officials emphasized that no sheriff’s office or police department in Massachusetts makes unsolicited calls demanding money, payment for warrants, fines, or missed jury service. They also stressed that real officers never ask residents to pay over the phone or through instant transfer apps.
“Slow down. Think. Outsmart. Put the phone down,” the sheriff’s office advised, warning residents not to make decisions under pressure. If a suspicious caller becomes insistent or threatening, authorities recommend hanging up immediately and contacting local police.
Residents who receive similar calls or believe they may have been targeted are encouraged to report the incident and share warnings with family and friends, especially seniors who are frequently targeted in financial scams.
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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