The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to beware of a scam in which someone pretending to be a sheriff’s employee asks for payment for non-existent infractions.
The department has received several complaints over the past two weeks about someone claiming to be Sgt. Michael McDonald with the Sheriff’s Office.
This scammer has been aggressive toward his targets, stating they have warrants, subpoenas or have missed jury duty and demanding money or threatening arrest. The most recent number that has shown on caller ID is 831.216.7170.
Sheriff’s officials say they will never call to demand money or gift cards, no matter the circumstance.
Anyone who receives a similar call is advised to hang up and not give any personal information. Scams like these often target unsuspecting elderly individuals.
