A release from the office outline one recent incident in which the mother of an inmate contacted an attorney after receiving calls from individuals claiming to be affiliated with local law enforcement agencies. The callers allegedly told her that the jail was full and that her son could be released to house arrest if she paid a bond.
Fortunately, the release says, the woman contacted the attorney before sending any money, preventing her from falling victim to the scam.
The release says other reports have involved similar tactics, and the office is urging the public to stay vigilant.
County Attorney Todd Thompson says scammers often "create a sense of urgency" to pressure people into making quick decisions. He advises anyone receiving unexpected calls about an inmate’s release to "stop and verify the information" before taking action, and to never provide personal or financial details to an unsolicited caller.
The release encourages residents to independently verify claims involving an incarcerated family member by contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency or detention facility using publicly available phone numbers—not those provided by the caller.
Anyone who receives a suspicious call should avoid giving money or personal information and report the incident to their local law enforcement agency.
The release reminds residents that awareness is one of the best defenses against scams and urges the public to share this information with family and friends to help prevent others from becoming victims.
