KENOSHA COUNTY, WI — The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about scammers impersonating law enforcement officers and demanding money under false pretenses, including claims that someone has been arrested, is in custody, or has an outstanding warrant.
In a public fraud alert, the Sheriff’s Office emphasized that deputies do not contact individuals demanding payment to clear warrants, prevent arrests, or secure the release of someone in custody.
The department also made it clear that deputies will not visit a residence or send someone to a home to collect money or other forms of payment under these circumstances.
Authorities warn that scammers may use the names of actual deputies, claim to possess law enforcement credentials, or threaten victims with arrest in an attempt to make their demands appear legitimate.
These tactics are designed to create fear and urgency, pressuring individuals into handing over money before they have an opportunity to verify the claims.
The Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents of several important precautions:
- Never send money or provide personal or financial information to someone making these demands.
- Hang up immediately if someone claiming to represent law enforcement demands payment.
- Contact the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office directly using an independently verified telephone number rather than a number provided by the caller.
- If someone arrives at your residence demanding payment while claiming to represent law enforcement, do not allow them inside or provide money. Contact law enforcement immediately.
The Sheriff’s Office stressed that even if a caller knows the name of a deputy or claims to have a badge, that does not make the demand legitimate.
“STOP. HANG UP. VERIFY.”
Residents are encouraged to share the warning with family members, friends, and neighbors, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to fraudulent telephone calls and intimidation tactics.
Anyone who receives a suspicious call or encounters someone attempting to collect money while impersonating law enforcement should contact their local law enforcement agency.
The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office wants residents to understand that demands for money under these circumstances are scams and should never be acted upon.
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