Scammers Posing as Pinal County Sheriff's Office Employees Attempt to Extort Money

In a disturbing turn of events, residents of Pinal County have become the latest target of a jury duty scam that preys on their fears and attempts to extort money. Impersonating employees of the Pinal County Sheriff's Office (PCSO), scammers have been making fraudulent phone calls to unsuspecting individuals, falsely claiming that they have missed jury duty or have warrants for their arrest.

The scammers employ various tactics to manipulate their victims, often using fear and intimidation to extract immediate payments for alleged fines and fees. This prompts a strong warning from local authorities, urging residents to be vigilant and informed to protect themselves from falling victim to this fraudulent scheme.

The PCSO emphasizes that they never engage in such practices and will never demand payment over the phone or ask individuals to purchase gift cards to settle fines. As the safety and security of the community are of utmost importance, it is crucial for residents to take the following precautions when receiving suspicious calls:

1. Exercise Caution: If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a PCSO employee, requesting payment or personal information, be skeptical. Legitimate law enforcement agencies do not operate in this manner.
2. Protect Personal Information: It is vital to safeguard your personal information. Never disclose sensitive details like your Social Security number, bank account information, or credit card details to unknown callers. Such information can be used for identity theft or other fraudulent activities.
   
3. Avoid In-Person Meetings: Legitimate law enforcement officials do not typically request face-to-face meetings to resolve legal matters over the phone. If the caller insists on meeting in person or attempts to intimidate you, refuse and report the incident.
   
4. Immediate Disconnection: If you suspect you are speaking with a scammer, hang up the phone immediately. Do not engage in further conversation or provide any information requested by the caller.
   

To verify the authenticity of any calls claiming to be from the PCSO, residents are encouraged to contact the Pinal County Sheriff's Office directly at 520-866-5111. The PCSO staff will provide guidance and confirm the legitimacy of the call.

By remaining vigilant and spreading awareness about this scam, residents can protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim to fraudulent activities. Working together as a community, San Tan Valley can thwart the efforts of these scammers and maintain its safety and security.

If you or someone you know has been targeted by this jury duty scam, it is essential to report the incident to the Pinal County Sheriff's Office immediately. By sharing information and staying informed, San Tan Valley can stand united against these fraudulent schemes and safeguard its residents from harm.

For further updates and resources regarding this scam alert, stay tuned to santanvalley.com. Stay informed, stay cautious, and protect yourself from scams.