Kanawha County, WV (WOAY) – The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office is trying to get the word out about a potential scam.
According to law enforcement, the internet scam starts with criminals checking the web to see who is currently incarcerated.
Scammers will then call you and pose as your loved one calling from jail and claim you must pay a “Pretrial Diversion Fee” immediately, or they will be forced to remain in jail for 60–90 days before being released.
Deputies want the public to know that calls like this are fake.
There is no surprise phone payment to avoid extra jail time.
Red flags:
• Pressure to act immediately
• Requests for gift cards
• Wire transfers
• Cryptocurrency
• CashApp, Venmo, or other money apps
If you get a call this, deputies say hang up immediately.
Then call local law enforcement to verify if you believe you are being scammed.
Sponsored Content
