INDIANAPOLIS— Steve Postma of Zionsville was skeptical when he received a phone call from someone named “Sgt. Johnson” from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
The caller said Postma failed to show up for jury duty and a warrant would be issued for his arrest if he didn’t pay at least 10% of a $10,000 fine.
“I said ‘I’m not in Marion County’, and he said ‘I know you’re in Boone County and we’re working with them to clean it up,’” Postma said.
Postma asked local law enforcement about the call, who told him it was a scam.
He didn’t give them any money but wants to share his story so that others don’t fall victim.
“It scared me,” Postma said. “I just told them to come and arrest me because I don’t have $10,000.”
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning last week that they’ve noticed a substantial increase in the number of phone scams where the caller claims to be a law enforcement officer and demands money.
“If a caller insists on being paid—especially in cash, gift cards or digital currency like Bitcoin- it is certainly a shakedown,” according to the sheriff’s office. “People receiving a call should simply hang up.”
You can also check for criminal warrants at mycase.in.gov or contact contact.mcso@indy.gov if you’re concerned about the validity of a scam call.
-
IndyGo buses keep on rolling despite several inches of snow
IndyGo decided to keep its regular schedule so that both those who did not want to drive and those who could not drive could access as much of the city as possible.
Indianapolis tow truck drivers help those who are stranded after winter storm
Local tow truck drivers are helping Hoosiers who are stuck in the snow. They are urging residents to stay home if they don't need to be on the roads.
Keeping pets safe amid freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall
It is against the law to leave animals outside when the temperature is at or below 20 degrees or if a wind chill warning has been issued.
Officials offer tips on how to stay warm while warming centers open across Indy
The snow brought to Central Indiana over the past few days will ensure cold temps for the rest of the week. Here are tips on how to stay warm and information on warming centers.
