CHELAN COUNTY, Wash. — The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a phone scam in which fraudsters are impersonating deputies to steal money.
Scammers are using the names of Deputies Key, McCue, Mathena and Moody to conduct fraudulent calls, texts and emails, the sheriff’s office said. The criminals tell victims they missed a court date, have a warrant and must pay money to clear it, according to the department.
Sheriff’s officials emphasize that legitimate deputies will never call residents about missed court dates or warrants, nor will they ever request money or payments, the sheriff’s office said.
The department urges residents not to respond to these communications and never provide money or personal information.
Residents who receive suspicious calls should hang up immediately and contact the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office directly to verify any legitimate legal matters, officials said.
Anyone who believes they may have fallen victim should contact local law enforcement immediately to file a report, according to the sheriff’s office.
These scams typically create urgency, with callers claiming immediate action is required to avoid arrest, the department said.
Community members are encouraged to share this warning with family members, particularly elderly relatives who may be more susceptible to these scams, officials said.
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