If someone calls and claims to be from the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office while demanding money, it’s a scam.
That’s the message local law enforcement is trying to get out, as more city residents report receiving phone calls from scammers. It’s not a new scam, but it’s pervasive, leading officials to continue to spread the word.
The advice from the Sheriff’s Office: just hang up if you get a call like this.
More from the city:
If you receive a call from someone saying they are from the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office (or any other Sheriff’s Office) and that you have to pay them money, hang up. Scammers will try a variety of approaches to intimidate and coerce people into giving them money. But actual sheriffs’ offices in Virginia will never call you and demand money.
Don’t be a victim! The callers may identify themselves as law enforcement officers and even use an official sounding title. They may state that you missed jury duty, have an outstanding warrant, failed to pay a fine, or did not appear in court on a summons, and as a result, you must pay them immediately. They may even threaten to have you arrested or send an officer or deputy to take you into custody, unless you give them money or provide them credit card or gift card information.
Do not pay them or disclose any financial or personal information. Simply hang up!
If you have been the victim of a scam, report it to your local police department. The Alexandria Police Department can be reached at 703.746.4444.
If you have any questions about this, please contact Lieutenant Sean Casey at 703.746.5116.
Scam alert! Criminals try different ways to scam people, like saying they are with the Sheriff’s Office and have a warrant for your arrest unless you pay $$$. But actual sheriffs' offices in Virginia will never call you and demand money or gift cards. https://t.co/ttDvQGooHN
— Alexandria Sheriff (@AlexVASheriff) January 17, 2020
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