HICKORY, NC — A jury duty scam has prompted Hickory Police to issue a warning to residents.
Police say several victims have reported receiving phone calls from a number showing up on caller ID as the Hickory Police Department. The caller states that the victim failed to appear for jury duty and a warrant has been issued for their arrest.
The victim is then told to stay on the phone, according to reports, while they are asked to give personal information, drive to their bank or ATM to withdraw money for payment of fines and then directed to obtain a money order at a local Food Lion.
The amount is typically around $2,000, police say.
Police say the victim is told that an officer will be dispatched to their home for their arrest if they do not remain on the phone throughout the process.
Hickory Police say they do not “call people to tell them they have a warrant for failing to appear for jury duty,” and anyone who receives this type of phone call should report it immediately.
