Wooster, OH – Residents across Wayne County are being warned today about an ongoing phone scam in which callers impersonate sheriff’s deputies and demand money to post bond for inmates.
According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, multiple reports have come in from individuals who say they were contacted by someone claiming to be Lieutenant Richard Cummings or Officer Reed. The callers allegedly tell victims they can bond out a loved one—often someone arrested in a domestic violence case—if payment is sent electronically.
Authorities say the requested bond amounts have ranged from $1,000 to $3,500. Victims are instructed to send money through apps such as Venmo or Cash App, often under pressure to act quickly.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that while those names are associated with real personnel, the calls are fraudulent. Officials stress that they will never contact family members to arrange bond payments or request money through electronic payment platforms.
The scam calls have reportedly come from phone numbers including 330-654-6864 and 330-287-5750, though officials warn numbers can be spoofed to appear legitimate.
According to deputies, scammers are deliberately targeting individuals with incarcerated family members, making the scheme particularly convincing and emotionally manipulative.
Residents who receive suspicious calls or texts are urged not to send money and to contact the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office directly to verify any claims. Authorities also encourage reporting scam attempts to help track and stop ongoing fraud activity.
