Roanoke County, VA – Residents are being warned about a new scam circulating in the area that involves fake federal arrest warrants sent via text or email, according to the Roanoke County Sheriff’s Office.
Scammers are reportedly distributing official-looking documents claiming to be from the FBI or the U.S. District Court for Roanoke County — a court that does not actually exist. The fake papers demand payment for a “bond,” “fine,” or “federal kiosk payment,” and may include a so-called “non-disclosure order” instructing victims not to tell anyone.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, these con artists are attempting to scare residents into sending money through Bitcoin machines, prepaid cards, or wire transfers. Officials stress that legitimate law enforcement agencies do not collect payments or issue warrants through text, email, or kiosks.
Authorities advise residents not to send money or personal information if they receive such messages. Instead, they should hang up or stop replying and report the incident to their local law enforcement agency and the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center.
The Sheriff’s Office added a reminder with humor: “The only thing these scammers should be serving are sentences, not warrants.”
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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