The Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office is warning residents of scammers posing as law enforcement and court officials, demanding payments to avoid arrest.
LACKAWANNA COUNTY, Pa. — The Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office is warning residents of a recent telephone scam.
Officials say residents are being contacted by scammers impersonating local law enforcement and court officials over the phone, claiming that they failed to appear for jury duty, have outstanding traffic citations, or have an active warrant for their arrest.
The scammers then tell victims that they must immediately pay a fine or face arrest, telling them to withdraw large amounts of cash and make payments through kiosks or other payment machines.
The district attorney’s office says the scammers may also reference the names of Lackawanna County officials, including President Judge James Gibbons and Sheriff Mark McAndrew. The phone number may even appear to be associated with the Lackawanna County Sheriff’s Office.
One victim lost about $2,000, while another was nearly convinced to pay $5,000.
Authorities remind residents that no law enforcement agency or court will ever call and demand that you pay cash, cryptocurrency, or gift cards to avoid being arrested.
Anyone who receives one of these calls should not share any personal or financial information and should not make any payments. Instead, hang up and contact the law enforcement agency or court through their verified phone number.
If you believe you have been targeted by this scam or already provided money, immediately contact your local police department.