02/02/2026
Scam Alert!
Beware of Scam Calls Impersonating Sheriff’s Employees
We want to make the public aware of an ongoing scam. We've recently received reports of a person making random phone calls to residents where they identify themselves as a member of the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office. They have been known to say they are a lieutenant or captain.
In these documented cases, the scammer claims the person has failed to report for jury duty so a warrant has been issued for their arrest. The fake deputy tells his target they must pay a certain amount of money in fines to avoid being arrested and taken to jail. A common ruse is to tell the person they can make the problem go away by paying a fine over the phone, often by utilizing digital payments such as Apple Pay, Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, Samsung Cash, etc. Do not fall for this! The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office wants to make it clear to the public that it never makes solicitations for money or asks for the payment of fines, bonds, etc. over the phone.
Be cautious when answering phone calls. The number displayed on your caller ID may say Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, but it may not be one of our official phone lines. Scammers sometimes spoof the ID in order to entice the person to take the phone call. If the caller threatens you or tries to negotiate a payment, it is not a real sheriff’s employee.
These scams are scare tactics that tend to come in waves and often target our most vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or those whose first language is not English. It’s important for everyone to stay aware of this trend and have a discussion with family and friends to educate and identify these fraudulent attempts. If you receive a similar call, do not give in to the caller’s demands and do not give them any of your personal information. Please document any information, such as the caller’s name or phone number and report it to the law enforcement agency overseeing your jurisdiction. If you live in Fresno County, our Sheriff’s Office accommodates online reporting for this type of matter. Please visit www.fresnosheriff.org and click on “Report a Crime” located at the top of the page, then select "Harassing Phone Call."
You may also make a complaint to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting https://consumer.ftc.gov/scams