The Lee County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a phone scam targeting family members of recently arrested individuals.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, scammers have been posing as Lee County deputies and contacting relatives with false information about an inmate’s release. The callers claim the individual has appeared before a judge and can be released on an ankle monitor, but only if the family pays a fee upfront.
Authorities say the scammers may negotiate a lower payment if a family member says they cannot afford the original amount. Callers also pressure victims to remain on the phone and threaten that their loved one will be returned to an overcrowded jail cell if they hang up or attempt to verify the information.
In some cases, scammers have become angry when family members offer to visit the jail in person.
The Sheriff’s Office reports receiving several complaints about these calls over the past month. In one recent incident, a scammer contacted the mother and husband of a recently arrested individual. Fortunately, the family recognized the warning signs and did not send any money.
Officials emphasize that legitimate deputies will never call family members demanding payment to secure an inmate’s release, reduce bond or arrange an ankle monitor. The Sheriff’s Office also will not request payments through gift cards, wire transfers, payment applications or cryptocurrency.
Residents are encouraged to hang up immediately if they receive a suspicious call. They should contact the jail or Sheriff’s Office directly using a verified phone number to confirm any information.
Authorities also remind residents that they are welcome to visit the jail in person to verify information.
Scammers may be monitoring public arrest records to identify potential victims, making it especially important for families of recently arrested individuals to remain alert.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to share the warning with friends and family to help prevent others from falling victim to the scam.
Source: Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
