Shelby County, OH – Residents across Shelby County, including Sidney and surrounding communities in western Ohio, are being warned about a scam involving fake law enforcement calls demanding immediate payment.
According to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are posing as local deputies and claiming victims have outstanding warrants. The callers allegedly use spoofed phone numbers to appear as legitimate government or law enforcement lines, sometimes even contacting victims at their workplace or home.
Authorities say the scammers demand payment in the form of gift cards, cash, or electronic transfers, claiming it will prevent arrest. In some cases, victims are sent a fake “bail bond” document with instructions, including barcodes, directing them on how to send money. Officials stress that residents should not follow these instructions or send any payment.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that legitimate warrants are never handled over the phone. Instead, they are served in person by a uniformed officer with proper documentation. Officials also clarified they do not solicit donations through unsolicited calls and warned residents not to trust anyone claiming to be a deputy requesting money.
To avoid falling victim, residents are advised not to trust caller ID alone, as it can be manipulated. Instead, individuals should independently look up official agency numbers and call directly to verify any claims. Government agencies will not demand immediate payment over the phone or request gift cards or cryptocurrency.
Anyone who receives a suspicious call is encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agency for guidance.
This article was produced by our editorial team with assistance from automated tools. Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
