The Pierce County Sheriff's Department has issued a warning about a series of phone scams targeting residents with false claims that payment is required to settle criminal cases, warrants, or jury duty complaints. The deception in this scam lies in how the scammers pressure victims to stay on the phone, manipulating them through an elaborate con. "Pierce County Deputies will never, ever, never, ever, ever, ask you for money in relation to any criminal case or warrant or jury duty," according to a statement made by the sheriff's department.
In a clear effort to educate and protect the public, the sheriff's department outlined how such calls are often the opposite of legitimate procedures. "We don’t want your Bitcoin and we don’t take gift cards for warrants," the post explained, rejecting the idea that law enforcement would ask for such payments. If officers contact someone, they will tell them to turn themselves in, not to negotiate for their freedom with unusual payment methods. The department noted that many people get caught up in these calls, guided by scammers through the fraudulent process. Victims usually realize they've been swindled only after hanging up.
Scammers often use an insistent tone, refusing to let their potential victims hang up to create a sense of urgency and prevent them from verifying the information or seeking help. The PCSO clearly stated a key sign of deception: "The scammer will not let you hang up the phone, that is how they trick you." If there is any doubt about a call claiming to be from a deputy, the sheriff's department advises hanging up and calling the non-emergency number or contacting the department directly to verify if a deputy is trying to reach you.
The public is urged to stay alert and skeptical of unsolicited calls and to contact law enforcement using official numbers from their websites if they receive such calls. This advice protects not only individuals but also helps combat fraudulent schemes that prey on unsuspecting citizens, creating fear and exploiting trust in authority figures. Reporting these scams promptly is crucial for dismantling the networks of deception that target people across the county.
