Based on several reports, the La Plata County Sheriff’s Office warns residents of a recent phone scam circulating in the area.
People describe being contacted by someone called “Deputy James Marshal,” who tells them a warrant has been issued for their arrest or they have missed a jury summons. The caller demands people go to Rite Aid and purchase Green Dot cards to cover the fictional warrant or bond fees, then transfers them to someone he calls “his captain,” who emphasizes the urgency of purchasing the Green Dot cards to avoid being arrested.
The La Plata County Sheriff’s Office does not call people to pay a fine to avoid arrest.
If a person falls victim to the scam, a caller may contact them again to demand additional money. Phone scams can take many forms: Callers may claim to represent law enforcement, courts, public utilities, banks or credit card companies.
People who have been contacted by a person involved in a phone scam should call the dispatch center at 385-2900.
