SCAM ALERT: Kern County Residents Targeted by Phone and Text Scams
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public about an ongoing phone scam in which individuals impersonating Sheriff’s Office personnel are contacting local residents and demanding payment under false pretenses.
Residents have reported receiving calls from individuals claiming to be with the Sheriff’s Office, stating that the recipient has missed jury duty, failed to appear in court, ignored a grand jury subpoena, or is wanted for contempt of court. The scammers then demand immediate payment to avoid arrest—often requesting payment via gift cards, Bitcoin, or other forms of electronic transfer.
In some cases, victims are told they must come into the Sheriff’s Office for services such as signature comparison or to receive official documents. The callers often use “spoofing” apps to display a phone number that appears to be from the Sheriff’s Office, adding to the illusion of legitimacy.
Text Message Scams Also Increasing
In addition to phone calls, scammers are now sending text messages falsely claiming unpaid DMV or toll road fees. These messages often include fraudulent links or payment requests. Do not click on links or send payment.
Red Flags to Watch For:
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Caller demands urgent or immediate payment
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Caller refuses to let you hang up or threatens arrest
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Payment is requested via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or other untraceable means
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Caller ID appears to show the Sheriff's Office number (spoofing)
REMEMBER:
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The Kern County Sheriff’s Office will NEVER request money, payment, banking info, or gift cards over the phone or via text.
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You will NOT receive a phone call if there is a warrant for your arrest.
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If a call seems suspicious, hang up immediately.
If you are unsure whether a call is legitimate, ask the caller for:
Then hang up and call the Kern County Sheriff’s Office directly to verify the information.
Report Scams:
If you receive a suspicious call or text you believe to be a scam, contact the Kern County Sheriff’s Office at (661) 861-3110 or report it to your local law enforcement agency.
Help us spread the word and protect our community—do not fall victim to these scams.
