Accomack, VA — A new scam targeting citizens by exploiting their civic duty sentiments related to jury service has prompted a warning from the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office. Residents in the area have reported receiving suspicious calls from individuals claiming to represent the local sheriff’s department or court system.
The callers falsely inform potential victims that they have failed to report for jury duty and as a result, a warrant has been issued for their arrest. To resolve the matter and avoid arrest, the targets are instructed to make immediate payments, often through prepaid debit cards, credit cards, or other non-traditional payment methods.
Sheriff Todd Godwin emphasized that this is a manipulative tactic aimed at exploiting unsuspecting individuals. He clarified that the sheriff’s office never demands payment over the phone nor solicits personal information in this manner. Official communications regarding jury duty always occur via mailed letters, and any legitimate fines or fees related to jury service would not be collected through such informal means.
Jury duty scams are not a new phenomenon, and they have been reported in various forms across the United States. Scammers typically rely on the intimidating prospect of legal troubles to pressure individuals into making hasty financial decisions. The psychological play exploits individuals’ respect for the legal system and their fear of potential repercussions.
Authorities advise recipients of such calls to remain calm and not to disclose any personal information or make any payments. Instead, they should hang up immediately and contact their local sheriff’s office to report the incident and verify the authenticity of any claims related to jury duty.
To further safeguard against such scams, residents are encouraged to educate themselves about the official jury duty summons process and familiarize themselves with common signs of fraudulent activities. Increased public awareness and vigilance are crucial in combating the effectiveness of such deceitful tactics.
The Accomack Sheriff’s Department also suggests checking with your local court administration if there is any uncertainty about a received communication purportedly about jury service. This step ensures residents can confirm the legitimacy of any questionable notices or directives.
In response to the rise of this scam, additional informational resources and scam-awareness programs are being planned. These programs aim to equip residents with knowledge and strategies to effectively identify and respond to scam attempts.
The public is reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to authorities to help prevent the spread of this deceitful practice. The Sheriff’s office remains committed to tackling these scams head-on, ensuring that the trust and safety of the local community are not undermined by criminal elements.
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