From The Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM — The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is warning citizens about scam artists that are contacting citizens and posing as deputies.
Sgt. Joni Money said scammers are contacting citizens and telling them they have missed a court date or failed to pay a fee ordered by the courts.
“They are identifying themselves as members of law enforcement, often using names of law enforcement officials that may be familiar,” said Money.
The scammer then demands payment in order for the victim to keep from being arrested.
“Please don’t fall for it,” said Money. “Members of law enforcement will never call you and ask you for money over the phone, nor will they ask you to leave cash at an unusual location.”
If you or someone you know has been a victim of such a scam, call the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office or your local law enforcement agency.
Money added, “It is upsetting to see our citizens being scammed out of their hard-earned money, particularly during the holiday season and during this pandemic.”