Please share with your family and friends this information regarding a Jury Scam that is occurring in Cobb County. COBB COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE PRESS RELEASE Warren Warns of Jury Duty Scam In recent months, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office has received numerous complaints from Cobb residents regarding a fraudulent scheme currently widespread in the metro area and other areas of the country, ranging as far as California. In July alone, The Sheriff’s Office has received complaints from approximately 25 residents, stating they have received such a call. Seven of the individuals have fallen victim and cumulative totals have exceeded $15,000. The scheme typically involves the victim receiving a phone call from a male identifying himself as a member of the “Sheriff’s Office” or other government agencies such as the IRS or DEA. Claiming the resident has failed to appear for jury duty, the caller informs the victim a warrant has been issued for their arrest. In order to have the warrant dismissed, the caller typically demands a substantial amount of money to pay a “fine”. The caller tells the victim to make a payment using a loadable prepaid money card, such as “Green Dot”, “Money Pak”, or “Vanilla Card”. Once the victim provides the number on the card, the caller has access to all the funds. According to Sheriff Neil Warren, educating the public about this crime is critical. “This type of scam has been used for many years and is making a comeback” stated Warren. “The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office would not contact a citizen demanding payment of a fine nor does the Sheriff’s Office have the authority to dismiss a warrant” said Warren. “Anytime someone identifies themselves as law enforcement and demands payment using a prepaid money card over the phone, you should be suspicious.” Warren further stated if an individual has a question regarding jury duty service to call the Superior Court Jury Administrator at 770-528-1757 or the State Court Jury Administrator at 770-528-2628. The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office is currently working in conjunction with numerous local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies investigating this fraudulent activity. If you have received a phone call similar to this nature, please contact the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Unit immediately at 770-499-4653.
Posted on: Fri, 24 Oct 2014 14:44:24 +0000