Richland County Sheriff Warns Residents of Phone Scam Involving Fake Deputies
Callers are falsely claiming residents have active warrants and demanding money to avoid arrest
RICHLAND COUNTY — The Richland County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about an ongoing telephone scam involving callers impersonating sheriff’s deputies and demanding payments for alleged warrants.
According to a news release issued Thursday, Aug. 6, residents have reported receiving calls from people falsely identifying themselves as Richland County sheriff’s deputies. The scammers tell potential victims they have an active warrant and pressure them to pay a fee to have the warrant dismissed and avoid being arrested.
The Sheriff’s Office stressed that legitimate deputies will never call someone directly and demand payment for fines or warrants.
“These types of scams are becoming more frequent and complex,” the agency stated.
Residents should never provide payment, banking or other personal information over the telephone to anyone claiming to represent law enforcement.
Anyone who receives a suspicious call should hang up without providing information and contact the Richland County Sheriff’s Office directly at 419-774-5881 to verify the claim.
Those who believe they have already fallen victim to the scam should immediately contact their local law enforcement agency.
The Sheriff’s Office is also asking residents to share the warning with friends and relatives, particularly older adults who may face a greater risk of being targeted.
