York County sheriff warns of widespread 'warrant squad' phone scam

ALFRED, Maine - The York County Sheriff's Office reported on Friday that many York County residents have been targeted by a so-called "warrant squad" scam that calls the intended victims saying they need to pay a fee or face arrest.

YCSO has "received several inquiries from community members who have been contacted by a "Sergeant Jackson" from the York County Sheriff's Office 'Warrant Squad'," according to a statement made by York County Sheriff Bill King.

King said that as part of the scam Sgt. Jackson advises that a "warrant" will be issued for the community member if a $600 fine is not paid. The scammer leaves a telephone number of 331-5778 (appears to be a cellular number) for callbacks.

Throughout the day Friday the sheriff's office was inundated with phone calls about the "warrant squad" scam. King asked victims to contact their local police departments with these reports. He added that the scam is more widespread than initially thought, reaching residents in the Bangor area.

In one variation on the scam, he said the scammer identifies himself as Deputy Timothy Cook and tells the victim that they missed jury duty and need to pay a "retainer."

King assured citizens that the sheriff's office does not have a "warrant Squad" or solicit money for missed jury duty by telephone and/or through Green Dot Card payments.

He asked that anyone who suspects they may have been targets of the scam to call 207.324.1113.