By: Richard L. Smith
Essex County authorities are warning residents to be on alert after reports of scammers targeting the families of people who have recently been arrested.
According to a statement released by Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Essex County Sheriff Amir Jones, scammers have been impersonating law enforcement officers, attorneys and court personnel while demanding money for supposed bail payments.
Officials said the suspects are directing victims to send money through digital payment services such as Zelle and Apple Pay.
In one reported case, a victim sent more than $11,000 through Zelle.
Prosecutor Stephens emphasized that New Jersey’s criminal justice reforms have largely eliminated the traditional cash bail system.
Although bail may still be required in limited circumstances, authorities said legitimate officials will not demand bail payments through Zelle, Apple Pay or similar digital payment platforms.
Residents who receive calls demanding immediate digital payments for the release of an arrested family member are urged not to send money and to treat the request as a potential scam.