Broward Sheriff’s Office warns residents about resurfacing jury duty scams

BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. — The Broward Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to remain vigilant as a jury duty scam targeting the public has resurfaced.

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According to BSO, detectives are investigating a recent scam attempt in which a resident was contacted and falsely told they had missed federal jury duty and an arrest warrant had been issued.

Investigators said the scammer instructed the victim to deposit $15,000 into a kiosk as bail to avoid being arrested. The victim was also told to participate in a video conference with someone posing as a member of the Broward County judiciary.

BSO says the victim became suspicious of the activity and did not send any money nor provide personal information, ended the call and notified law enforcement.

The sheriff’s office is working with the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit and the Broward Clerk of Courts to remind residents that law enforcement agencies, the courts and the clerk’s office will never call to threaten anyone with arrest or demand payment to avoid jail.

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Authorities say scammers often use high-pressure tactics, spoofed phone numbers and names of real government employees to make their schemes appear legitimate.

BSO is also urging residents to never send money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency after receiving an unsolicited phone call, text message or email. Officials also advise against sharing personal or financial information with unexpected callers and recommend verifying any requests by contacting the agency using an official phone number or website.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a scam is encouraged to contact local law enforcement. Residents living in Broward Sheriff’s Office jurisdictions can report suspicious activity through BSO’s non-emergency phone number at 954-764-HELP (4357).

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