Reoccurring sheriff impersonator incidents have prompted the state Department of Public Safety Sheriff Division to issue more scam warnings.
In recent weeks, several people have had callers, claiming to be deputy sheriffs, tell them that they have outstanding warrants because they failed to appear in court, according to the DPS.
One scammer even told a woman that she failed to appear at a hearing she was summoned to for her expert testimony. She was instructed to post a “surety bond” to freeze charges against her. She immediately hung up the phone and reported it.
“These scammers are getting very creative in their attempts to steal money. They’re using real deputies’ names, and they are spoofing real Sheriff Division phone numbers,” said State Sheriff Mark Hanohano in a statement. “We want to remind everyone that Hawaii sheriffs will not call you about missed court appearances or solicit any form of payment electronically, or by phone.
“The best thing to do is hang up and report it.”
Hawaii residents also are advised not to provide credit card numbers, bank account information, or other personal information to callers claiming to represent a law enforcement agency.
If you receive a call, text or email matching this scam, please alert the Sheriff Division by calling (808) 586-1352.