Somerset Sheriff Warns of Warrant & Debt Phone Scam

SOMERVILLE – The Somerset County Sheriff’s Office is advising the Somerset County community to be aware of a continuing phone scam that is targeting residents in the county.

In the most recent scam, the caller – sometimes via voice message – identifies himself as an employee of the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office.

The caller says the resident has an outstanding debt or warrant and demands immediate payment using a prepaid credit card. The caller states that if a resident cannot pay, he or she will be arrested and put in jail.

Scammers have sought personal information and Green Dot MoneyPak cards for false warrants, civil process fees, overdue IRS payments and non-appearance for jury duty.

“In the event these fraudulent calls are received, residents should never give their personal or financial information over the phone, nor should they arrange to meet someone to provide a prepaid credit card,” said Sheriff Frank J. Provenzano.

Somerset County residents should notify local authorities or the Sheriff’s Office if they receive these calls. Any suspicious calls regarding the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office can be directed to 908-231-7140, ext. 9.