Yet again, several scams are circulating in our community involving callers impersonating HCSO personnel and agency phone numbers. These scammers can be very forceful, claiming an individual has outstanding warrants, missed jury duty, or other legal matters that require immediate attention to resolve.

The scammers will often demand payment through the use of pre-loaded debit cards or other electronic payment methods to remove the warrant or resolve the individual's specific legal issues.

Regarding this recent rash of scams, Sheriff Austin Garrett emphasizes, "The HCSO will never solicit or demand money from a citizen over the phone or through the use of pre-paid debit cards. Any official communication from our agency will be sent by certified mail or you will be served court process by one of our Civil or Criminal Warrants Deputies. In some instances, you may be asked to come to one of our offices to speak with a designated staff member. Never transmit funds over the phone to anyone who claims to be from the HCSO or any government agency. Our mission is to provide you with excellent customer service and calling, demanding money from you is NOT how we serve you.”

If you feel you have been the victim of a scam or wish to report a potential scam, please contact the HCSO’s non-emergency number at 423-622-0022.