Scammers targeting residents on the Eastern Shore

According to Sheriff W. Todd Wessells, the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office has recently received information regarding the ongoing use of scams against citizens, which could result in the loss of thousands of dollars to the victims.  Although many of these scams are not new, as technology advances, so do the methods of conducting the scams.

Most recently, scammers are calling individuals advising that they have missed jury duty and are in contempt of court and that fines have been assessed.  The callers advise citizens that if the fines are not paid, they risk being arrested.  The scammers are using names of actual deputies employed with the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office.  Under no circumstances will the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office require patrons to pay fines over the phone.

This is just one of many scams that individuals have fallen victim to and it is strongly encouraged to not send money to anyone that you do not know, however if you decide to, thoroughly check out the circumstances and ensure you are confident that the claim is legitimate.  Prior to sending any money, it is suggested that you obtain as much information as possible from the caller such as their name, badge number, phone number, company name and address and their supervisor’s name, and verify that this information is correct by researching it yourself.  If the caller refuses to provide any of those details, becomes intimidating or threatening, or pressures you to make a decision immediately, you should hang up, and if necessary, call your local law enforcement agency.

For additional tips on avoiding becoming a fraud victim, visit https://www.fbi.gov and click on the Scams and Safety link.

Anyone with information on this or any other incident is asked to contact the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office at (757) 787-1131 or (757) 824-5666.  Tips may also be submitted through our website at accomackcountysheriffsoffice.org.