By: Tracie Carter
Authorities in Middlesex County are warning residents about a growing variety of scams involving criminals impersonating police officers, court officials, and government agencies to steal money and personal information.
According to information released by Middlesex County officials, scammers are increasingly using phone calls, text messages, emails, and social media to convince unsuspecting residents that they owe money or face arrest.
In some cases, fraudsters have even sent photographs of legitimate or altered law enforcement badges and credentials to make their schemes appear authentic.
Fake Arrest Warrants and Threats of Jail
Officials say one common scheme involves scammers claiming that an arrest warrant has been issued against a resident.
Victims may be told they missed jury duty, failed to appear in court, or are connected to a criminal investigation.
Other schemes involve claims that suspicious packages were intercepted, bank accounts were linked to international drug activity, or outstanding E-ZPass payments must be resolved immediately.
Scammers then demand payments through cryptocurrency, gift cards, cash, or even gold bars to supposedly prevent an arrest.
Jury Duty Scam Targets Residents
Authorities report that individuals have been impersonating members of the Middlesex County Sheriff's Office, falsely claiming residents failed to respond to jury summonses.
The callers sometimes provide fake warrant numbers and demand immediate payment to avoid arrest.
Officials emphasize that courts do not request payments over the phone or ask prospective jurors for Social Security numbers.
Probate Court and Estate Scams
Another scheme targets residents involved in estate, probate, or real estate matters.
Scammers pretending to represent the Middlesex County Surrogate's Office or Probate Court claim there are problems with applications or outstanding fees.
Some impersonate attorneys or debt collectors, threatening legal action or frozen assets unless payment is made.
Residents with questions about legitimate probate matters should contact the Middlesex County Surrogate's Office directly at 732-745-3055.
Officials Urge Residents to Stay Alert
Authorities stress that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never demand money to resolve criminal matters or send someone to a residence to collect cash.
Residents should never provide banking information, Social Security numbers, or other sensitive personal details to unknown callers.
Officials also warn that scammers can manipulate caller ID information to make calls appear to originate from legitimate government agencies.
Anyone receiving a suspicious call should hang up and contact the agency directly using a verified telephone number.
If someone arrives at a residence demanding money or instructing a resident not to contact police or family members, authorities advise calling 911.
Officials encourage residents to share these warnings with family members, particularly older adults who may be targeted by fraudulent government impersonation schemes.