Scam Alert: Caller Poses as Local Sheriff

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ROCKVILLE, MD — The Montgomery County Police Department is warning residents about a new phone scam hitting the county, where the caller claims to be a sergeant with the sheriff’s department.

Detectives from the Montgomery County Police Department Fraud Unit are investigating reports of a scammer calling county residents using the phone number (301) 514-4308. The callers then identify themselves as “Sgt. Jackson” with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department.

Authorities say the victim is told a warrant has been issued for their arrest or that they have missed jury duty. To avoid punishment, the victim is asked to pay a fine by sharing their credit card information over the phone.

Members of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office would never ask residents for their credit card information or tell them to wire or send money on a prepaid card, police say. Officials would also not tell residents that they can pay a fine over the phone.

Residents who receive these scam telephone calls are asked to contact Deputy James Johnson during business hours at 240-777-7041. You can report these calls after business hours by calling the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office at 240-777-7000.