The Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office is issuing a public‑safety alert after discovering a phone scam that specifically targets the families of individuals who have recently been arraigned and booked following an arrest. According to the department, the fraudsters pose as sheriff’s staff and claim they can secure an electronically supervised release for the defendant in exchange for a payment.
How the scam operates
Scammers first obtain the name of a recently arraigned person, often through public court records. They then call a relative or close friend, introducing themselves as a member of the sheriff’s office. The caller explains that the defendant’s release can be expedited if a fee is paid, promising that the individual will be fitted with an ankle monitor and allowed to return home.
Once the victim agrees to pay, the fraudster sends a money‑transfer link via text message. To appear legitimate, the link frequently redirects to a real ankle‑monitoring vendor’s website, lending a false sense of credibility. After the victim submits payment, the scammers disappear, and no release is granted.
What residents should do
The sheriff’s office emphasizes that no legitimate fee is ever required for an electronic monitoring release. All official communications from the department are conducted in person, through the department’s verified phone numbers, or via the agency’s official website. If anyone receives an unsolicited call or text requesting money for a release, they should:
- Hang up immediately.
- Verify the caller’s identity by calling the official Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office number at (315) 435‑3081.
- Report the incident to the sheriff’s office so investigators can track and shut down the operation.
Why the warning matters
Family members of defendants are often under stress and may be more vulnerable to deceptive offers that promise a quick resolution. By targeting this specific group, the scammers exploit both emotional pressure and the public’s limited familiarity with the legal process. The sheriff’s office is actively investigating the scheme and working with state law‑enforcement partners to identify the perpetrators.
Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant, protect personal information, and share any suspicious calls with local authorities. The department will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses.
Contact information
Anyone who believes they have been contacted by the scammers should call the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office immediately at (315) 435‑3081. The office is available to answer questions, verify legitimate communications, and take reports of fraudulent activity.
Original reporting: CNY Central WSTM (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
