The San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office would like to make residents aware of an ongoing phone scam that has recently been reported in Polk County and may occur within our area.
Individuals are reportedly receiving phone calls from people claiming to represent a local Sheriff’s Office or a probation department. During these calls, the scammers attempt to convince victims that they owe money for things such as missing jury duty, unpaid traffic citations, or other alleged legal matters.
In some cases, callers have even claimed that a loved one can be released from jail for a payment due to “jail overcrowding.”
These individuals often pressure victims to immediately send money using digital payment applications such as Cash App or other similar services. Once money is sent through these types of platforms, it is extremely difficult — if not impossible — to recover.
The San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office wants residents to know that law enforcement agencies do not call individuals to collect fines or request payment through mobile payment apps, gift cards, or third-party services. Any legitimate legal matter will be handled through official court processes, not through a phone call demanding immediate payment.
If you receive a call from someone claiming to be law enforcement and asking for money, do not provide any personal information and do not send funds. Instead, tell the caller you will address the issue in person at the Sheriff’s Office. Scammers typically refuse this request and will attempt to pressure you into paying immediately.
Residents are encouraged not to engage with these callers. Hang up and report the incident.
If you receive one of these suspicious calls, please contact the San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office at (936) 653-4367 and provide any information you have, including the phone number used by the caller. This allows our office to follow up and warn others who may be targeted.
Scammers often research local information, including names of judges, inmates, or community members, in an effort to appear legitimate. Do not allow urgency or pressure to influence your decision. When in doubt, contact your local law enforcement agency directly to verify the information.
If you have any information regarding any criminal activity, please contact the San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office at (936) 653-4367 or, to remain anonymous and be eligible for a potential reward, contact Multi-County Crime Stoppers at (800) 392-7867, use the free P3TIPS mobile app, or submit a tip online at www.multicountycrimestoppers.com
