MONROE COUNTY, Fla. – Monroe County law enforcement officials are warning the public about a recent surge in phone and text scams where thieves pretend to be Sheriff’s Office deputies, jail personnel, or other officers in order to steal money.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the fraudsters falsely identify themselves as real law enforcement personnel and invent legal troubles to intimidate potential victims.
Common tactics include telling residents they missed jury duty, fabricating traffic infractions, or sending fake court documents. In some instances, scammers have even referenced legitimate criminal cases or specifically targeted individuals who are already facing charges in the court system.
Deputies stressed that any demand for payment via gift cards or Bitcoin is an immediate indicator of fraud. Officials noted that legitimate government agencies, utility companies, banks, and credit card providers will never ask for funds through these non-refundable methods.
The Sheriff’s Office recommends that anyone who receives a call or message asking for money on behalf of an official agency should immediately hang up and contact that organization directly through an independently verified phone number or website.
Residents who receive urgent messages from family members or friends claiming to need emergency funds should also pause and contact that person directly to verify the situation before sending any cash.
Locals who receive fraudulent text messages, emails, or calls are encouraged to save all records and report the information to the Sheriff’s Office directly at www.keysso.net/locations.
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