October 15, 2021 3:50 a.m.

Staff with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents of a phone scam.

Sergeant Brad O’Dell said the scam seems to make the rounds every few months. Residents answer their phone and get someone on the other end identifying themselves as a law enforcement officer. They tell the person who answered that they have missed jury duty, failed to pay some fines, or have a warrant for their arrest. Eventually the caller says the problem can be cleared up by paying fees or fines in the form of Western Union, pre-loaded debit cards or gift cards.

O’Dell said DCSO has been receiving calls from community members reporting that they have received such calls from people claiming to work for DCSO. Some names being provided are actual names of DCSO staff members.

O’Dell said its critically important for the community to be aware of these tactics and to share them with friends and family, especially those who may be vulnerable to falling victim to the scams, such as elderly members of the community. He said it is also important for retailers to inform their staff members about the scam, and to ask them to be watchful for people who may be making transactions in relation to the scam.

O’Dell said that law enforcement will not call people to let them know they have a warrant, rather they will make personal contact. Anyone who believes they have fallen victim to this scam should call DCSO at 440-4471.