04/23/2026
The Shelby County Sheriff's Office would like to warn citizens of a scam that is circulating about warrants and donations.
The scammers identify themselves as a member of local law enforcement. They will call your employer and your home. They create a fake caller ID, which allows them to call you and appear to be calling from a local police, sheriff, or other law enforcement agency. They will demand payment in the form of gift cards, cash or to send money electronically for you to avoid being arrested on a warrant. They will send you to a bail bondsman to make payment. The scammers will send you a paper with instructions on how to send the money (pay your bond.) DO NOT SCAN THE BARCODE AND SEND MONEY!
The Shelby County Sheriff's Office will not call you if you have a warrant. Warrants are handled via paper documentation, typically served in person by a uniformed officer. DO NOT ever agree to meet someone at a strange address, especially someone who calls and demands cash or gift card payment.
We also do not have an "Officer Moore" or any other Deputy calling for a local donation.
Here are a few ways to spot scammers in the act:
• DON'T TRUST CALLER ID
Scammers can manipulate caller ID to look like the call is coming from an official government number. Do not call the number that appears on your caller ID back. Look up the government agency's phone number and call them directly with questions or concerns.
Government agencies won’t call, text, or email you to demand immediate payment.
Nobody legit will ever tell you to pay with gift cards, money transfers, or cryptocurrency.
Never share personal information with anyone who contacts you.
As always, if you are concerned about a phone call, please contact your local law enforcement agency. They will be able to advise you on the situation.
Stay alert and share this information with everyone you know.
