(CBS-DETROIT) – Several Monroe County residents have reported a phone scam involving false legal threats and demands for payment through Venmo or Zelle.
Sheriff Troy Goodnough said his office received several reports of the scam on Saturday.
Authorities say the scammer claims to be a member of law enforcement, using names such as “Sergeant Moody” and “Brian Quinn.”
The scammer says the recipient of the call has a warrant for his or her arrest, has failed to appear before the grand jury, or has missed a court appearance.
The scammer then demands payment through various payment options, including mobile payment apps like Venmo and Zelle, saying the recipient will be arrested if they don’t comply.
No law enforcement agency will call people and demand money or be arrested for any reason, the sheriff’s office says.
Authorities recommend contacting the police or someone trustworthy for an opinion on the cal.
Anyone encountering this type of scam should contact their local police or sheriff’s office. Monroe County residents can report scams to the central dispatch center at 734-243-7070.
