The Washington County Sheriff's Department is cautioning residents about a recent surge in reports of a sophisticated jury duty scam that has been targeting individuals within the county. "This deceptive scheme aims to exploit innocent citizens by impersonating law enforcement officials and demanding monetary payments. The Sheriff's Department is urging the community to be vigilant, informed, and prepared to avoid falling victim to this fraudulent activity," warned Sheriff Brent Miller.

In the jury duty scam, fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officers or court officials and contact individuals by phone or email, claiming that the recipient has missed a jury duty summons. The scammers then proceed to threaten the victim with arrest warrants or legal consequences if they fail to pay a fine while on the call to resolve the alleged offense.

To lend an air of authenticity, scammers may manipulate caller ID information to appear as though they are calling from a legitimate government agency. They often employ aggressive and intimidating language to pressure individuals into compliance. Victims are then instructed to make immediate payments through prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, or other untraceable methods.

"The Washington County Sheriff's Department is actively investigating these reports in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, court officials, and other relevant organizations," stated Sheriff Miller.

The Washington County Sheriff's Department recommends the following precautions:

• Verify Credentials: If you receive a call or email regarding jury duty, ask for the caller's name, title, and contact information. Legitimate court officials will provide this information and allow you to verify their credentials independently.

• Do Not Share Personal Information: Never provide personal, financial, or sensitive information over the phone or through email. Legitimate government agencies will not demand immediate payments or personal information in this manner.

• Contact the Court: If you are uncertain about the legitimacy of a jury duty notice, contact the court directly using official contact information obtained from their official website or court documents.

• Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect you have been targeted or have fallen victim to this scam, contact the Washington County Sheriff's Department immediately.

The Washington County Sheriff's Department is committed to safeguarding the community against scams and fraudulent activities. By staying informed and vigilant, residents can protect themselves and their loved ones from becoming victims.