Using deception tactics that evolve with technology, scammers are once again targeting the unsuspecting public of Nevada County—this time by posing as law enforcement. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office issued a warning via Facebook, alerting residents to a series of fraudulent phone calls in which scammers impersonate members of their own team to swindle citizens. Regardless of what the caller ID may display, these calls are entirely fraudulent.
One notable scam involves the name "Sergeant Timothy Highsmith," who indeed, is part of the NCSO team, but has been unscrupulously name-dropped in fraudulent calls seeking money. Similarly, scammers have laid claim to the identity of "Sergeant Dennis Haack,", another real member of the force, in a bold attempt to extract financial penalties for nonexistent offenses. "The following video is an example of a real phone message a resident in Nevada County received... This call was from a 'Sergeant Timothy Highsmith.' We DO have a Sergeant Timothy Highsmith on our team. This, however, is a scam," the Sheriff's Office disclosed, reinforcing the message that their officers would "NEVER call you for money."
Scammers are using intimidation and urgency to pressure victims into quick, often costly decisions. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office has outlined clear guidelines to help prevent such scams. They emphasize that legitimate law enforcement will never solicit money over the phone or issue threats for payment. Residents are advised not to disclose personal information and to be cautious of calls demanding immediate payment or threatening legal consequences.
To help protect the community, the Sheriff's Office has shared precautionary measures and encouraged residents to spread awareness. "Any call demanding urgency and immediate action should be viewed with suspicion," the department stated. If there is any doubt about a call’s legitimacy, residents should end the conversation and verify the caller’s identity by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly at 530-265-1471.
