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Greenwich Chief: Just Hang Up On 'Absurd' Scammer Using Arrest Threat

GREENWICH, Conn. -- Phone scammers have a new tactic, and Greenwich Police Chief James Heavey is warning residents not to fall for it.

Greenwich Police Chief James Heavey warned Wednesday of a new phone scam, where a caller impersonates him and threatens arrest if payment is not made immediately.

Greenwich Police Chief James Heavey warned Wednesday of a new phone scam, where a caller impersonates him and threatens arrest if payment is not made immediately.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Greenwich Police Department

In a Wednesday Facebook post, Heavey explained the scam: An imposter claims to be the chief, says the person failed to report for jury duty and says there's a warrant for their arrest — unless they go get gift cards and call in a payment.

The Greenwich Police Department said people in Greenwich and nearby towns and even someone as far away as California have reported such calls.

Heavey called these attempts "illegal solicitation."

We'd like to make sure that the community is aware that we are not doing any type of telephone solicitation, and if they receive suspicious phone calls like this one, to be very wary.

The department asks that residents spread the word that no police department in the county will demand payment this way -- "it is absurd." 

"Don't fall for it," the post says, "just hang up."

If you do get contact information from the would-be scammer, report the attempt to the tip line at 203-622-3333 or tips@greenwichct.org.

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