LABELLE, FL. -- Hendry County Sheriff’s Office has received several calls reporting calls from individuals claiming to be from the Sheriff’s Office or the US Marshalls Office, claiming they failed to appear for Jury Duty. IT’S A SCAM.
The scammers often spoof official phone numbers and use high-pressure tactics, threatening arrest or legal action if you don't pay immediately. The caller may appear to be very legitimate -- with caller ID showing a sheriff’s office phone number and an official-sounding voice on the phone; recently victims are reporting the calls show no caller ID. The caller tells the potential victim to stay on the phone and to not hang up.
The scammer demands immediate payment (usually via gift cards, wire transfers, or crypto) to avoid fake arrest warrants or fines for offenses like failing to appear for jury duty.
Please know that a law enforcement agency will NEVER call to demand money or threaten arrest over missed jury duty. Just know that bail/bond is not negotiable, and the government does not ask for Venmo, Cash App, Apple Pay, or any other form of digital payment apps.
Here’s how to handle unsolicited callers or suspicious messages:
- Hang Up or Stop Replying Immediately: Do not engage, argue, or attempt to verify details with the person on the line.
- Never Send Payment: Law Enforcement will NEVER demand payment over the phone, via text, or demand untraceable payment methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
- Protect Personal Information: NEVER share your Social Security number, banking details, or credit card information with an unsolicited caller or texter.
- Verify Directly: If you are unsure about your jury summons status, call the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office at 863-674-5600.
- Report It: Report any fraudulent calls or scams to local law enforcement.
- Please share this post to help keep our community informed and protected.
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