Scammers in Walton County use fake deputy names and fraudulent phone numbers to extort money
Walton County, Florida – The local Sheriff’s Office advises Walton County residents to stay aware of a scam involving impostors posing as deputies. The warning comes after several residents reported receiving fraudulent phone calls from individuals claiming to be “Deputy Josh Bennett” or “Deputy Johnson.”
Using a phone number with an 850-area code, the callers have tried to take advantage of residents by falsely asserting they should pay off fines or outstanding warrants. The frauds have been requesting money and guiding victims to pay using several ways not approved by any law enforcement agency.
Following their first false pitch, the callers provide victims a phone number so they may call back with any questions, which results in a voicemail mistakenly identifying as the Walton County Sheriff’s Office.
The Walton County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) has made clear that the stated figure has no bearing on their official lines of operation. They underlined that their official non-emergency contact number is 850-892-8111 and should be used for real questions and reports.
The WCSO reminds the public in their public statement that no law enforcement agent will ever ask for money to handle legal concerns including warrants. Under these situations, they highly advise against buying gift cards or sending money via wire transfers. They also advise locals to always over-the-phone confirm the identification of anyone claiming to be a law enforcement official or government agent.
Residents are warned never to disclose or confirm private or financial information over the phone unless the caller’s identity can be fully verified. The WCSO has underlined in their public outreach the motto “verify, verify, verify”.
Although the fraudsters can be somewhat convincing, the Sheriff’s Office also emphasizes the need of remembering that no real law enforcement organization will ask for payments for remote prevention of arrest or resolution of legal problems. Those who suspect fraudulent behavior or victims of this crime can directly report the incidence by calling the Walton County Sheriff’s Office at 850-892-8111.
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This scam serves as another reminder of the continuous requirement of awareness against deceptive techniques meant to take advantage of vulnerable individuals by impersonation and fraudulent claims.
