Scammer Impersonating Watsonville Police

WATSONVILLE, CA — The Watsonville Police Department is warning residents about a report of a scammer posing as a sergeant.

A resident told police they received a call from someone posting as Sgt. Michael Ridgway calling to speak about "confidential legal matters." The scammer is untraceable, as the call was placed over the internet, police said.

Nearby police departments have reported similar scams in recent months, police said.

Police say anyone who isn't expecting a call from police should be suspicious about a scammer posing as an officer, and personal or financial information should never be shared with strangers over the phone.

Residents should not believe callers who claim they will levy a punishment on someone who doesn't pay a debt immediately, police said.

Residents may verify that calls are coming from police by calling dispatch 831-471-1151.