Residents of Kenton County have been warned about a sophisticated telephone scam that targets families of people who are incarcerated. The fraudsters are using authentic booking information – names, charges and even detention‑center details – to make their calls sound legitimate.
How the scam works
Annie Klette, a Kenton County mother, received a late‑night call claiming her son had been arrested and could be released on an ankle monitor if she paid $750. The caller knew her son’s exact booking number and described the alleged charges, which gave the conversation an air of credibility.
During the call, the scammer kept the line active, transferring Klette between different voices and insisting she could not hang up. “He told me I couldn’t hang up because if I hung up that call, he could not do the program and would have to move on to the next person,” Klette said.
Family members urged to verify
Klette eventually called the Kenton County Detention Center herself. Staff confirmed that no such payment program exists and that the call was a fraud. Jail officials emphasized that they will never request money from family members to secure an inmate’s release.
According to the detention center, the only legitimate way to address an inmate’s status is through official channels – in‑person visits, court appearances, or direct communication with the facility’s staff. Any request for money, especially through mobile‑payment apps such as Venmo or Cash App, should be treated as a red flag.
What to do if you receive a similar call
The county’s law‑enforcement agencies advise anyone who receives a call like this to:
- Hang up immediately.
- Contact the detention center directly using a verified phone number.
- Never send money via untraceable methods such as cash‑transfer apps.
- Report the incident to local police so investigators can track the scammers.
Scammers often rely on the urgency of the situation, pressuring victims to act quickly before they have a chance to think rationally. By staying calm and confirming the facts, families can protect themselves from losing money.
Community impact
While the financial loss in Klette’s case was avoided, the emotional toll of believing a loved one might be in danger is significant. Community leaders stress the importance of public awareness and education on these types of fraud, especially in areas where families regularly deal with the criminal‑justice system.
Local churches, neighborhood groups and the Kenton County Sheriff’s Office have begun sharing informational flyers and holding briefings to help residents recognize the hallmarks of the scam. The goal is to empower families with knowledge so they can safeguard both their finances and their peace of mind.
Law‑enforcement response
The Kenton County Sheriff’s Office has opened an investigation into the phone numbers used in the scheme. While the callers have not yet been identified, officials say they are working with state and federal agencies to trace the origin of the calls and bring the perpetrators to justice.
In the meantime, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant, report suspicious activity, and rely on official communication channels when dealing with the detention center or any other government entity.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
