Authorities are alerting the public to a phone scam in which callers are falsely identifying themselves as law enforcement officers, including someone claiming to be “Deputy Kobes” with the Wapello County Sheriff’s Office.
Reports indicate that individuals are being contacted by phone and told they have missed jury duty. The callers then attempt to pressure victims into paying fines or fees to avoid the issuance of a warrant.
This is a scam.
The Wapello County Sheriff’s Office confirms that neither Deputy Kobes nor any member of the agency will contact residents by phone to demand payment for missing jury duty or to request money in lieu of legal action.
Residents are urged to be cautious if they receive such calls. Law enforcement officials emphasize the following guidance:
- Do not provide any personal or financial information
- Do not send money or make payments of any kind
- Do not engage with the caller
- Hang up immediately
- Report the incident to local law enforcement when possible
Officials encourage residents to share this warning with family, friends, and especially those who may be more vulnerable to phone scams.
The Wapello County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate reports related to this scam and reminds the public that legitimate legal matters involving jury duty are handled through official court correspondence—not phone calls demanding payment.
For more information, contact:
Wapello County Sheriff’s Office
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