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Alert Issued For Scam Callers Impersonating Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office

Be wary of any calls you receive from parties claiming to represent the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office - it could be a scam.

The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office is warning residents of a new scam involving fake warrants.

The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office is warning residents of a new scam involving fake warrants.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Scam callers typically try to receive money from victims by contacting them and falsifying elaborate stories often centered around loved ones.

“It’s common for the perpetrators of these scams to try to get money by telling people that one of their relatives has been seriously hurt or is in jail and that they need money right away,” said Dutchess County Sheriff's Office Captain John Watterson. “In many cases, they will pose as a law enforcement official or another relative to try and convince the victim that it’s legitimate.”

In a recent scam, victims will receive a call from someone claiming to represent law enforcement. The caller will then tell the victim that there is a warrant for their arrest that can be purged by sending immediate payment.

Multiple reports of this scam were received on Thursday, Nov. 14, police say, and the caller allegedly identified themselves as “Sgt. Mark from the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office.”

Officers with the DCSO suggest residents take the following actions to prevent becoming a scam victim:

  • Avoid meeting up with somebody you don’t know.
  • If you receive a call stating that a loved one has been hurt or is in jail, call other relatives or a legitimate law enforcement agency for confirmation before taking action.
  • Use caution when sending money overseas.
  • Ask the caller for a return phone number. Call back and ask for the supervisor. If it’s a scam, they will most likely hang up.
  • If there’s any doubt about a phone call you’ve received, contact the Sheriff’s Office before sending any money.

DCSO officials remind residents that once the money is sent in a scam, it is extremely difficult if not impossible to get back. Anyone who feels that they may have been a victim of this scam is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office at (845) 486-3800 or via the tipline at (845) 605-CLUE. Emails can also be sent to dcsotips@gmail.com.     

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