The Richland County Sheriff’s Office is alerting the area about scammers who are targeting families of people recently arrested.
According to the sheriff’s office, scammers are calling relatives and claiming they must send money to secure the release of a loved one from jail. In some cases, callers say the individual can be placed on an ankle monitor or released on pre-trial conditions once payment is made.
Authorities say the callers are demanding as much as $1,175 and often promise the money will be refunded, minus a $75 fee. The calls are typically made from “No Caller ID” numbers.
Officials are urging residents not to send money, not to share personal information, and to hang up immediately if they receive such a call.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted is encouraged to contact the Richland County Sheriff’s Office or your nearest law enforcement agency.