Washington County, Tennessee — Authorities are warning residents about a scam involving fake arrest warrants and cryptocurrency payments, prompting a public safety alert from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, scammers allegedly contact victims by phone and text message claiming the person has an active warrant and must pay a bond immediately to avoid arrest.
Officials say the scam typically directs victims to deposit digital currency — such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, or Dogecoin — at a cryptocurrency ATM or similar machine.
The callers may claim the payment is required before the person can report to the local sheriff’s office. In some cases, victims are told they must scan a QR code or enter a docket number to complete the transaction.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that this scenario is fraudulent.
“If you have a warrant, we prefer to surprise you,” the department stated in its alert. “We aren’t calling ahead.”
Authorities also warned residents that any demand to pay bail or bond through digital currency is a major red flag. Money deposited into cryptocurrency machines is typically not traceable and is extremely difficult to recover once sent.
The alert also notes that scammers may send official-looking documents or images referencing federal courts or the U.S. attorney general in an attempt to appear legitimate.
According to the sheriff’s office, law enforcement agencies do not request bond payments through cryptocurrency machines, text messages, or phone calls.
Residents who receive suspicious calls or messages are urged to hang up and contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office directly to verify the information.
Officials say awareness is key, particularly for students, young workers, and commuters who may receive unexpected calls during the workday.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted is encouraged to report the incident to local authorities.
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