FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – Court officials say that scam artists claiming to be police officers in search of citizens who have missed jury duty are back on the prowl again in Allen County.
Bogus calls from scammers have been reported this week and originate from a 260 area code telephone number. An individual claiming to be a law enforcement officer instructs the recipient that they have missed jury duty, a warrant has been issued for his or her arrest and that the person must provide the scammer with money by phone in order to satisfy a resulting fine.
“These callers are not court employees, police officers or any legitimate official,” said Judge Frances C. Gull, Administrative Judge of the Allen Superior Court Criminal Division. “They are scam artists and thieves, plain and simple. Through lies and intimidation, they are preying on decent citizens eager to do their civic duty.”
In Allen County, all legitimate contact with prospective jurors occurs in writing, beginning with a postcard requesting certain information to determine eligibility for jury service. Personal information, such as bank or credit card numbers, or any type of payment obligation, is never requested.
“If you get one of these calls, give these people the response they deserve. Hang up,” Gull added.
Anyone with questions about jury duty service, including questions regarding the legitimacy of unsolicited contact, may call the Allen Superior Court Jury Management Office at (260) 449-7520 or (260) 449-7022.