Winder Police are warning local residents of a new phone scam that has been reported multiple times over the past several days.
The scam is apparently perpetrated by someone falsely claiming to be a Barrow County Sheriff's Deputy; this person is said to also use the name of an "actual supervisor" that is currently employed with the Sheriff's Office.
Winder police Lt. Chris Cooper described the next step of the scam in an email sent to local media:
"The caller says, 'You failed to show up for jury duty this morning and there is now a warrant for your arrest. If you pay the $500.00 fine right now we will clear things up and when you show up, you can get your money back.'"
Cooper said that after recieving the initial $500.00, they try to extort additional funds by claiming back-taxes are also owed by the victim.
He added that the scammers, whose phone numbers have thus far been untraceable, have been demanding payments "via Money Pak cards."
While many potential victims have been able to identify the call as a scam, Cooper said some local residents haven't been as fortunate.
"Several have paid money, some totaling in the thousands," he explained. "If you receive this type of call, just hang up. If you think you may owe money for a fine or other court fee, call the Police Department or Sheriff’s Office directly."
Cooper noted that the IRS, Sheriff's Office and Police Department will never demand payment over the phone
"If you feel you have been a victim of this type of incident, please call your local law enforcement agency and report it immediately."
http://accesswdun.com/article/2016/9/450682/new-phone-scam-targets-barrow-county-residents