Pierce County, Washington – The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about phone scams impersonating deputies and targeting families of recently jailed individuals.
According to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are falsely claiming to be Sheriff’s Office employees and contacting the public after reviewing booking records of recently arrested inmates. In multiple reported cases, callers allegedly tell family members they can secure a loved one’s early release, home monitoring placement, or enrollment in special jail programs if payment is made immediately over the phone.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that it never requests money by phone and does not accept payments for jail release, home monitoring, or correctional programs through gift cards, wire transfers, or electronic payment apps.
Officials say scammers may use the name of a real Sheriff’s Office employee to appear legitimate and increase pressure on victims. Families are often targeted during stressful moments following an arrest, making them particularly vulnerable to the scheme.
Residents who receive calls demanding payment are advised not to send money, not to share personal or financial information, and to hang up immediately. The Sheriff’s Office recommends reporting suspected scam calls using a verified phone number for the agency or contacting a local law enforcement department directly.
The warning applies countywide and is especially relevant for families, students, and young adults who may receive unexpected calls tied to recent arrests.
Authorities say legitimate jail or court-related payments are handled through official, documented processes and never under urgent phone demands.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted is encouraged to report the incident so investigators can track patterns and alert the public to emerging scams.
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 and support local independent news.
Have a tip? Message us.
