Phone Scam Has U.S. Marshals Concerned

Tampa Bay, FL — Tampa Bay area residents are being warned to exercise caution when they pick up their telephones.

In a new twist on the old warrant scam, the bad guys are now calling victims and claiming to be from the U.S. Marshals Service, the agency warned in an email to media. The caller tells victims there has been an arrest warrant issued in their name for failure to report for jury duty, a civil suit or failure to respond to a summons, the marshals service said.

“The caller states ‘to avoid arrest, send money,’” the email warned. Most recent reports to the agency about the bogus warrants have said the scammers asked for $1,000 to cover a “fine” in lieu of arrest.

“Bona fide law enforcement officers don’t call before serving a warrant,” the agency warned. “They will knock on your door or you will receive a piece of certified mail informing you of any legal action that’s being taken against you.”

The U.S. Marshals Service officers these tips for people who receive phone calls that don’t seem legitimate:

• Ask for the caller’s name, agency or company, and the street address and telephone number
• Refuse to discuss any fine or debt until a written validation notice is received
• If the caller refuses to provide information requested, stop the conversation
• Those who have accidentally given out credit card or bank account numbers are urged to contact their banks and credit card companies directly

The U.S. Marshals Service Middle District of Florida office says that phony warrant calls have been placed to residents across the country and throughout Florida.

Anyone who has questions about the authenticity of a federal warrant is urged to contact the U.S. District Clerk of the Courts before acting.

To find out more about the U.S. Marshals Service, visit www.usmarshals.gov online.

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