Mail Scam Targets Ventura County Residents
| Nature of Incident: |
Mail Scam Targets Ventura County Residents |
Location:
Date & Time: |
Ventura County, CA
03/06/23 |
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| Narrative: |
Citizens in Ventura County have reported receiving letters sent through certified mail attempting to collect money on behalf of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department. The author/suspect identified themselves as “Sheriff Smith Hughes” in the letter. The unidentified suspect is NOT a member of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.
The letter claims the recipient/victim is responsible for a duplicate check that was cashed at a local restaurant. The suspect claims to have access to the victim’s driver license and threatens to send the matter to collections. Two weeks are given to pay the outstanding amount plus interest. If the amount is not paid, the suspect states they will issue a warrant.
The Sheriff’s Office recommends that you do not respond in any manner with the suspect. Always do your research before providing any personal information or sending money.
If you have been scammed and suffered a financial loss, contact Sheriff's Dispatch at (805) 654-9511 to file a report. You can also file a complaint online with the Federal Trade Commission at
www.ftc.gov or the Federal Bureau of Investigation at www.ic3.gov.
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| Prepared by: |
Captain Cameron Henderson |
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| News Release Date: |
March 6, 2023 |
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| Media Follow-Up Contact: |
Captain Cameron Henderson
805-654-2417
[email protected]
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Address/Location
Ventura County Sheriff's Office
800 S Victoria Ave
Ventura, CA 93003
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 805-654-9511
