Beckley, WV (WOAY)-The Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a troubling phone scam.
Officials say scammers are impersonating deputies, calling or leaving voicemails claiming you owe fines and threatening arrest if you don’t pay up immediately.
In many cases, they’re demanding payment in the form of a gift card, which is an immediate red flag.
The callers can even spoof local numbers, making it appear as though the call is coming directly from the Sheriff’s Office.
Some are dropping real names of deputies or staff to sound more convincing.
The Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office will NEVER call to demand payment or collect fines over the phone.
If you get a call like this, hang up immediately and do not share any personal or financial information.
If you’re unsure whether a call is real, call the Sheriff’s Office directly at 304-255-9300, or visit them in person at 308 Ned Payne Drive in Beckley.
