WASHINGTON — Maybe it seems like a scam for which no one would fall, but when threatened with arrest, who knows?
The scenario begins like this: In Arlington County, the telephone rings and the caller, a scammer, says he’s a lieutenant with the sheriff’s office.
“Each time the victims are contacted, they are being accused of failing to appear for jury duty, and that a warrant for their arrest will be issued unless an immediate fine is paid out,” says Arlington County police spokesman Dustin Sternbeck.
The scammers have demanded victims pay a fine of up to $350 on a pre-paid MoneyPak card, available at convenience stores.
“At the threat of being arrested or having outstanding warrants for their arrest, they make a quick decision to put this money in the hands of these scam artists,” Sternbeck says.
Police say anyone receiving such a call should immediately hang up, then call the Arlington County Sheriff’s Office at 703-228-4460.
Reports can also be filed online.
Follow @WTOP on Twitter and WTOP on Facebook.
