Jackson, NJ – Police are warning residents about a new phone scam in which callers impersonate officers from the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department and demand thousands of dollars in cash.
A Jackson resident reported receiving a call from someone claiming to be a sheriff’s captain who said there were two outstanding warrants for the resident’s arrest for “Failure to Appear.”
The caller instructed the resident to bring $10,000 in cash to turn himself in, even sending a fake warrant with the resident’s name via text message to make the threat appear legitimate.
Authorities said the document was fraudulent and that no legitimate law enforcement agency contacts people by phone to demand money or threaten arrest.
Police urge community awareness
The Jackson Police Department stressed that this is a scam and urged residents not to respond to such calls or provide any personal or financial information. Officers warned that scammers often target older adults who may be more trusting or fearful of law enforcement threats.
Residents who receive similar calls are encouraged to hang up immediately and report the incident to local police.
Officials emphasize reporting suspicious activity
Police said scams of this nature are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often using caller ID spoofing to make the number appear official.
Authorities are asking community members to share this warning widely to help protect vulnerable residents. Anyone who suspects a scam can contact the Jackson Police Department for verification or file a report.