Scammers Impersonating Police In Stafford County

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — A new scam features a caller impersonating a police officer to extort money from victims, according to a release from the Stafford County Sheriff's Office. Authorities reminded residents that the Sheriff's Office will never demand money in the form of gift cards over the phone.

Multiple Stafford County residents have already reported the scam to police. The residents received calls from an individual claiming to be a deputy from the sheriff's office, and informed them that they missed jury duty and were guilty of "contempt of court." The caller even provided a fake badge number to appear more legitimate, police said.

After informing the victim of the charges, the scammer informs them that their record can be cleared if they pay a fine of $1,800. The caller explains that the fine is to be paid in MoneyPak cards, and the victim should provide the cards' serial numbers and mail them and their receipts to a particular address, the sheriff's office said.

If the scammer's number is called back, it plays a pre-recorded message, claiming to be the non-emergency line for the Stafford County Sheriff's Office. This is another attempt to seem legitimate, police said.

The Stafford County Sheriff's Office said that no law enforcement official will ever seek money in exchange for dropped charges or warrants. They also explained that residents should be weary of any caller that requests money in the form of gift cards.

Any0ne who receives a scam call or has questions about the legitimacy of a law enforcement official can call the Stafford County Sheriff's Department at 540-658-4400.