Local residents are being warned about a new scam involving fake arrest warrants designed to frighten victims into sending money.
According to Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr., scammers are sending fraudulent arrest warrants, often by email, in an attempt to convince people that they face arrest unless they make an immediate payment.
The documents are created to appear official and may include fake signatures, court-style language and other details intended to make the warrant look legitimate. In some cases, the scammers also provide instructions for sending money through various electronic payment services.
Authorities say the goal is simple: create fear and pressure the recipient into acting quickly before they have time to verify whether the warrant is real.
“We removed the name of the target of the scam, but you can see the fraudsters faked the signatures for the judge and clerk,” Sheriff Martinez said. “It’s all an effort to make the document look real and scare people into paying to resolve the ‘warrant.’”
Residents who receive a suspicious warrant or threatening message are urged not to send money, provide banking information or make any electronic payment, regardless of how official or urgent the document may appear.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that it does not demand electronic payments in order to prevent an arrest.
Scammers often rely on fear, urgency and intimidation to convince victims to respond before checking the legitimacy of the claim. Residents should be cautious of unexpected emails or messages claiming that they owe money, have an outstanding warrant or must make an immediate payment to law enforcement.
Anyone who receives a suspicious document should independently verify the information by contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency or court through an official phone number or website rather than using contact information provided in the questionable message.
Residents are also encouraged to warn family members, friends and neighbors about the scam, particularly anyone who may be unfamiliar with these types of fraudulent schemes.
The message from Sheriff Martinez is clear: never send money simply because someone threatens you with arrest.
“We NEVER demand electronic payments,” Martinez said. “Don’t become a victim.”
— Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr.