June 3, 2025 3:40 a.m.

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is once again warning residents about a common scam that has resurfaced in the community.

Undersheriff Brad O’Dell said individuals are receiving fraudulent calls claiming there is some type of law enforcement matter that needs attention. O’Dell said the caller, often using the names of actual staff members, pressures victims to pay through gift cards or cash apps. The caller employs tactics intended to create a sense of necessary immediate action.

O’Dell said this is the same scam that DCSO has warned about a number of times over the past several years. Scammers continue to exploit fear and urgency by using the names of real officials to create a sense of legitimacy. O’Dell said it’s important to remember that legitimate law enforcement will never demand payment for fines via cash apps, gift cards, or any other unconventional methods. Nor will law enforcement call residents advising them that a warrant has been issued for their arrest.

O’Dell said residents are strongly encouraged to be cautious when receiving unsolicited calls demanding immediate payment for any alleged fines, especially those related to jury duty. Anyone who receives such a call should not engage the caller. Simply hang up and report the incident to law enforcement.

For more information or to report a scam attempt, contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office at 440-4471.