By: Richard L. Smith
Essex County Sheriff Armando B. Fontoura has issued a public safety alert warning residents about a phone scam in which individuals impersonate shesheriff'sficers to steal personal and financial information.
According to a statement released by the sheriff's department, scammers have been making fraudulent phone calls and sending text messages while falsely claiming to represent the Essex County Sheriff's Department.
The caller, using the fictitious name "Sergeant Blake Anderson," alleges that the recipient failed to appear for jury duty and that a judge has issued a contempt of court order.
The scammer then demands personal information and requests that an affidavit be completed at the shesheriff'sfice.
In some cases, the caller sends a fake summons via text message to lend credibility to the hoax.
Sheriff Fontoura urges residents to remain vigilant and refrain from sharing sensitive information or making payments to anyone claiming to be from the Essex County Sheriff's office.
"These calls are a scam, and we want residents to be aware and protect themselves," Fontoura said.
The shesheriff'sfice provided the following advice for identifying and avoiding these scams:
1. Any request for payment via phone or electronic means concerning legal issues is fraudulent.
2. Do not share personal or financial information over the phone.
3. If you have not received an official jury duty summons by mail, disregard such calls and contact the Essex County SheSheriff'sfice at 973-621-4111 to report the incident.
4. Be cautious even if the caller ID displays "Essex County Sheriff's Office. Scammers can spoof caller ID information.
Sheriff Fontoura emphasized that legitimate legal notifications are sent by mail and do not involve phone requests for payment. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious calls to local law enforcement to help combat this ongoing scam.