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Scammer pretends to be with Sheriff's Office

Posted at 4:48 PM, May 05, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-05 16:48:25-04

A scammer claiming to represent the Howard County Sheriff’s Office has attempted to bilk at least 20 people out of money over the last few weeks, county police said.

The caller says that an arrest warrant has been issued for the victim for failing to appear for a grand jury subpoena. He also says the victim’s driver’s license will be suspended unless a fine is paid, and he instructs the victim to pay a fee using a pre-paid debit card to get rid of the warrant.

In one case, the victim paid the scammer more than $900.

Law enforcement officials say they never contact people by phone to tell them of legal action against them. They’ll also never ask for a payment over the phone.

If you’ve been the victim of a scam, call police at 410-313-2200. If you have information about this particular scam, call 410-313-STOP or email HCPDcrimetips@howardcountymd.gov

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