TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan and U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg are warning the public about a nationwide scam targeting individuals who have failed to appear for jury duty. Scammers are impersonating law enforcement officers, including U.S. Marshals, and threatening arrest if a fine is not paid.
The Middle District of Florida has seen a significant increase in reports of victims falling victim to these scams. The scammers employ convincing tactics, providing personal information about their targets, including addresses and dates of birth. They may even use the names of real federal judges, court employees, genuine court addresses and phone numbers, as well as case and badge numbers. To further deceive their victims, the scammers “spoof” phone numbers to make it appear as if the calls are coming from legitimate court or government agencies.
During the fraudulent calls, the scammers instruct victims to immediately pay a fine. They suggest methods such as purchasing prepaid debit or gift cards, or making electronic payments. However, officials stress that no legitimate court official, U.S. Marshals Service, or government employee will demand payment or personal information over the phone or via email.
Chief Judge Corrigan emphasizes the fraudulent nature of these calls, urging individuals to refrain from sharing any financial information with those claiming to be judges or court officials. U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg further highlights the seriousness of the scam, stating that attempts to exploit citizens’ sense of civic duty for fraudulent purposes is a serious matter.
Residents of the Middle District of Florida who believe they have been targeted by these scams are encouraged to report the incidents to the Federal Trade Commission and their local FBI Field Office. Officials remind citizens that court summons are always sent by U.S. Mail and that no payment will be demanded over the phone.
To authenticate a call, individuals can contact the Clerk’s Office of the U.S. District Court using the provided phone numbers on the court’s website. Any scams should be reported to the District Court Clerk’s Office, U.S. Marshals Service, or Federal Trade Commission.
In conclusion, the Middle District of Florida is experiencing a surge in reports of a nationwide scam where scammers impersonate law enforcement officers to threaten individuals who have not appeared for jury duty. The scammers use deceptive tactics, including providing personal information about their targets. Officials stress that no legitimate court official or government employee will request payment or personal information over the phone. Individuals who believe they have been targeted are encouraged to report the incidents to the appropriate authorities and to authenticate any calls using the provided phone numbers on the court’s website.