ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A popular jail bond scam is making the rounds once again with a resident of St. Joseph County becoming a victim.
According to the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Office, the victim got a phone call from someone identifying themselves as their grandson, who had been arrested for a traffic offense and was in need of money to get out of jail.
Also on the phone was a woman who identified themselves as a lawyer out of New York, who was representing the grandson.
During the call, both the fake grandson and lawyer stated they needed $8000 dollars in cash and instructed the victim to call back once she returned home with the money from the bank.
After making contact with the fake lawyer by phone, a supposed bail bondsman came to pick up the money within 5 minutes, arriving in an older model grey/brown Toyota Camry. After exchanging the money, the male subject then left the residence in a hurry.
Authorities described the subject as a well-dressed white male, approximately 30 to 40-years-old, about 6 feet tall, thin, with a well-trimmed beard.
The victim’s real grandson was contacted and said he was never arrested and had no involvement in the incident.
Sheriff Mark Lillywhite wants to remind residents that the Sheriff’s Office will not send deputies, or bail bondsmen, to homes to collect cash and says those who believe they are being scammed should contact their local authorities prior to handing over any money.
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