Verona, VA – The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a phone scam involving callers impersonating sheriff’s deputies and demanding money.
According to the sheriff’s office, several citizens have reported receiving calls from individuals claiming to be “Lieutenant Cason,” “Lieutenant Greene,” “Deputy Cox,” or “Deputy Roane.” The calls are coming from restricted numbers, and in many cases, the caller leaves a voicemail instructing the recipient to call back to resolve legal issues such as jury duty summons or warrants.
The numbers provided to call back — 540-445-0998, 540-445-0992, and 540-445-0994 — are not associated with the sheriff’s office, authorities said. Officials repeatedly stressed that no one from the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office will ever request gift cards, cash, or bitcoin in exchange for avoiding arrest.
The sheriff’s office urged residents not to return the calls, no matter how convincing the voicemail may sound. Authorities warned that scammers may aggressively pressure victims into buying gift cards or transferring money under the pretense of resolving a warrant.
“Please make sure that your parents and grandparents are aware of this scam and others that are similar,” the agency stated in a public notice. Deputies advised residents to educate family members about the dangers of responding to unsolicited requests for payment.
Anyone uncertain whether a call is legitimate is encouraged to contact the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office directly at 540-245-5333.
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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