CHARLOTTE, NC — With the holidays in full swing, the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is reminding residents to remain vigilant against possible Jury Duty scams that continue to occur in our area.
The most recent incidents were reported on December 13th. The Sheriff’s Office says they received two reports about an individual who contacted the victims and claimed to be a Sergeant with the MCSO. The victims, one a senior citizen, were reportedly told that an arrest warrant had been issued on them for missing Jury Duty and payment must be provided to avoid arrest.
Deputies say the victims purchased prepaid Visa/Mastercards worth hundreds of dollars and called the individual back to provide the numbers.
The MCSO reminds residents that they will NEVER contact you by phone to arrange a payment to avoid arrest, nor will they ever ask for any personal information over the phone such as social security numbers, credit card numbers, money or other potentially sensitive financial information.
Officials say the scammers will often use the names of actual Sheriff’s Office employees when calling, as well as local numbers that appear to be associated with the MCSO.
The Sheriff’s Office says anyone who suspects they are receiving this type of call should hang up and report the incident to the MCSO by calling 980-314-5002 or 911.
