Fake sheriff calls demanding bitcoin spark urgent scam warning — Police lights.

Police say real deputies never demand payment

YORK COUNTY, Pa. — Police are warning residents to stay alert after scammers began posing as York County Sheriff’s Department personnel and demanding money through gift cards and Bitcoin while threatening victims with arrest.

According to the Northern York County Regional Police Department, the callers falsely claim victims owe money for fines and insist payment must be made immediately.

Investigators said the scammers often pressure victims by threatening arrest or other legal consequences if they do not comply.

Police emphasized that law enforcement agencies, including police departments and sheriff’s offices, do not demand payment by gift cards, Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency.

Anyone who receives one of these calls is urged to hang up immediately and contact 911 or the Northern York County Regional Police Department at 717-292-3647.

Key Points

Scammers are impersonating York County Sheriff’s Department personnel.
Victims are being told to pay alleged fines with gift cards or Bitcoin.
Police say legitimate law enforcement agencies never demand payment using those methods.

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

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