In recent days, the Boone County Sheriff’s Office has received reports of a new phone scam advising citizens that they missed jury duty and they owe money because of it. In these reports, the scammer will tell the victim that if they do not pay a fine, a bench warrant will be issued for their arrest. In addition, if the citizen does not answer the phone, the scammer will leave a message advising them to call a number.
The phone number, 765-335-6292, is an automated voice that indicates they are the Boone County Sheriff’s Office. It will also ask for the citizen to leave a message. Then, after the citizen leaves their information, the scammer will call back in hopes that the citizen will believe that they are with the Sheriff’s Office.
The Boone County Sheriff’s Office does not make phone calls to anyone in regards to missing jury duty. Some red flags in these types of calls are that the caller does not identify what court. In Boone County we have three county courts: Superior I, Superior II and Circuit Court. All of these courts have local phone numbers that you can verify any information. In addition, the callers usually will not mention the judge’s name.
We have three current seated judges: Matt Kincaid, Bruce Petit and Jeff Edens. As always please use your common sense in these matters and always advise the caller that you will call them back on a local number. All court and Sheriff’s office locations have local numbers. In addition, jury duty selections will have a mailed application to fill out and return to the Courts. You will also receive a letter with date and time to appear.
Sheriff Mike Nielsen stated: “It is unfortunate that these types of criminals prey upon our citizens but it is reality in the world we live in today. Please take all necessary precautions to protect your family from these types of heartless individuals. Always ask questions and verify information with the Sheriff’s Office or your local law enforcement agency before taking any action.”