Roanoke County, VA – Residents across Roanoke County are being warned about a renewed phone scam targeting people with threats of arrest for allegedly missing jury duty. The Roanoke County Sheriff’s Office says the calls are designed to create panic and pressure victims into sending money immediately.
According to the Roanoke County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are calling residents and claiming they failed to report for jury duty and now owe fines ranging from $500 to $7,000. In some cases, the callers are using phone numbers that appear to be associated with the Sheriff’s Office, making the calls seem legitimate.
Authorities stressed that law enforcement agencies will never call demanding payment, threaten arrest over the phone, or request money to resolve jury issues. The Sheriff’s Office also emphasized that it does not accept gift cards such as Target, Apple, or Google as payment under any circumstances.
Investigators say scammers often make repeated calls to the same number, using urgency and intimidation to pressure victims into paying. Residents are urged to hang up immediately if they receive such a call and not to call the number back.
Officials note that legitimate jury-related matters are handled through the courts and communicated by official mail—not surprise phone calls. Anyone unsure about a call is encouraged to independently contact their local law enforcement agency using a verified phone number.
The Sheriff’s Office also reminds residents never to share personal or financial information with unsolicited callers and to never send money based on threats or urgent demands.
Community members are encouraged to share the warning with friends and family, particularly older adults or anyone who may panic upon hearing the words “jury duty.”
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