St. Clair County, MI – Families across Michigan are being warned about a rising phone scam targeting people with loved ones in jail, according to the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office.
The scheme, known locally as the “tether scam,” preys on family members during stressful times. Scammers call victims while posing as sheriff’s deputies, claiming that payment is needed to release a relative on tether. They then demand money through PayPal, Zelle, Apple Pay, or similar apps—methods law enforcement says they never use.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the most recent case involved a caller using the number (810) 734-6447 and impersonating “Sgt. Wise.” The victim in that incident allegedly lost nearly $1,000.
“The Sheriff’s Office will never request payment through digital apps,” officials emphasized. Anyone receiving such a call is urged to verify by contacting the office directly at (810) 987-1700.
To illustrate, deputies outlined how the scam typically unfolds: a relative receives a call claiming a loved one can be released if $1,000 is sent immediately through PayPal. Believing the story, the family pays—only to later discover the request was fraudulent.
Sheriff Mat King urged vigilance: “It is disheartening that individuals stoop low enough to play on others’ misfortunes and take advantage of others in a stressful time. Please, remain vigilant and if you ever suspect something may be a scam, reach out to local authorities.”
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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