Monroe County, MI → The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about an ongoing phone scam in which callers are posing as law enforcement officers and threatening victims with arrest in an attempt to collect money.
According to a press release issued Friday afternoon, the sheriff’s office has received multiple reports of fraudulent calls made to residents across the county. In the incidents, an unknown individual claimed to be a member of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, identifying himself as “Lieutenant Quinn,” and told victims they had outstanding warrants, missed jury duty, or failed to appear in court.
Authorities say the scammer uses fear and urgency to pressure victims into sending money immediately. In some cases, the calls appeared to come from the phone number 734-436-5286, though officials noted the number may also show up as blocked or disguised.
Investigators said the caller typically demands payment through gift cards or other electronic methods, which are common tactics used in impersonation scams. Officials emphasized that legitimate law enforcement agencies do not call people to demand payment or threaten arrest over the phone.
Sheriff Troy Goodnough is urging residents to stay alert and verify any suspicious calls. If something doesn’t seem right, people are encouraged to contact someone they trust or call law enforcement directly to confirm whether the claim is legitimate. The sheriff’s office also stressed that no one should send money to a caller claiming to be a government official.
Anyone in Monroe County who receives one of these calls is asked to report it to Monroe County Central Dispatch at 734-243-7070. Residents outside the county should contact their local police department or sheriff’s office to report similar incidents.
- NMD Staff
Staff@NewMediaDetroit.com