A common phone scam has been brought to the attention of law enforcement in the Tri-Cities.
The Richland Police Department (RPD) announced in a release that the Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is receiving reports about people claiming to be with BCSO.
The scam involves “bad actors” asking or demanding money to satisfy warrants for missing out on jury duty, police said.
RPD said they will never ask for money in exchange for warrants.
What the scam involves:
Callers may claim to be from the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. Callers may claim to have a warrant for missing jury duty or a felony warrant. Callers may ask for money or payment to clear a warrant. Callers may ask you to buy money cards.
What you can do:
Hang up: If you receive a suspicious call, hang up the phone.Contact non-emergency dispatch: Call the Richland Police Department’s non-emergency dispatch at (509) 628-0333.Don’t provide personal information: Do not provide any personal or financial information over the phone.Visit the official website: If you want to check out a call, visit the official website for contact information.