Telephone scams are common these days. But it’s rare to receive such a call from someone claiming to be a law enforcement officer or court official. That’s what’s been happening recently in Berrien County, as we learn in this statement from Trial Court Administrator Carrie Smietanka-Haney:
_______________________________
The Berrien County Trial Court has received reports of a telephone scam involving jury service.
Citizens are contacted by phone, often from what appears to be a local number. The caller identifies himself or herself as a local law enforcement official and informs the citizen that they failed to appear for jury service. The caller may even reference fictitious case numbers or the names of local officials, possibly including judges during the call.
The caller then informs the citizen that he or she must pay a fine over the phone or using a web payment platform (ex. PayPal or Zelle), or risk being arrested.
This is NOT a valid contact from the Berrien County Trial Court. The Court communicates with citizens on all jury-related matters by US Mail.
Unfortunately, scams like this are relatively common and strike at citizens around the country all too routinely.
If you believe you have been targeted by this or any other jury-related scam, please contact the jury office at jury@berriencounty.org or (269) 983-7111 x8347.
