Alert: Sheriff Impersonator/Jury Duty Scam

The Hawai‘i Sheriff Division is warning citizens about a recent sheriff impersonator scam.

Impersonators claiming to be from the sheriff department, Honolulu Sheriff Department or “sheriffs’ office are calling Hawai‘i residents, informing them that they are wanted on a warrant for failing to show up for jury duty.

The scammer is offering to clear the warrant in exchange for payment by phone.

In three recent cases, the individuals received calls from people who identified themselves as captains or lieutenants with the sheriffs department.

All of the scammers in these reports had what was described as a southern drawl or accent.

After stating that there is warrant for failure to report for jury duty, the caller asked for money and told the individuals to go over to the Honolulu District Court and meet with the sheriffs to clear the warrant.

In two of the cases, the individuals figured out it was a scam before giving any money over the phone and immediately notified the Hawai‘i State Sheriffs.

A third report resulted in a Theft 2 case being opened.

The public is reminded that sheriffs do not call people about warrants having to do with jury duty.

They will never ask for personal information or solicit payment over the phone.

Hawai‘i residents are also advised not to provide credit card numbers or other personal information to callers claiming to represent a law enforcement agency or the courts.

“This is a nationwide scam that started affecting Hawai‘i residents in early 2014,” said Hawai‘i State Sheriff Renee Sonobe Hong. “The calls appear to be random. The victims are usually scammed to pay money. We urge people to share this alert with your family and friends so they don’t become the next victim”.

If you receive a call matching this scam, call the Sheriff Division at (808) 586-1352.