Scam Caller Claiming To Be MBPD Officer Demands Money From Residents

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — The Manhattan Beach Police Department warned residents about a scam caller claiming to work for the police department to solicit money from people.

According to MBPD, the caller told residents that they had a warrant for their arrest and demanded payment in the form of gift cards, Zelle or Apple Pay in order to avoid arrest. Officers were made aware of the calls on Friday when a resident reported the suspicious call.

When the resident tried to call the number back, they were directed to a voicemail recording that stated, "You have reached the Manhattan Beach Police Department. If this is an emergency, please dial 911."

Authorities reminded residents that neither MBPD nor any other city or Los Angeles County agency will call to demand payment or threaten arrest for any matter. Residents should never share any personal information with these callers.

"If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from the Manhattan Beach Police Department or any other law enforcement or government agency demanding payment, immediately HANG UP," MBPD said in a statement.

Anyone who believes they received one of these calls or have been a victim of a phone scam was urged to contact MBPD at 310-802-5140 to file a report.