Murfreesboro, TN - This week, two senior citizens and another resident in Rutherford County reported three different scams attempting to steal their money. The culprit told the victims over the phone or through text messages that they were with the Rutherford County Sheriffs Office. 

Fake U.S. District Court Document

One senior citizen received an email with a fake U.S. District Court document stating she was wanted for failing to appear in court and for contempt of court. To avoid arrest, she was ordered to deposit money into a bitcoin kiosk and print the receipts. The scammers, posing as Rutherford County Sheriff’s deputies, told her she would be jailed for 30 to 60 days for missing jury duty and ordered her to stay on the phone or face immediate arrest. While on the phone, she visited the Sheriff's Office, where a warrants sergeant identified herself, causing the scammers to hang up.

Toll Road Scam

Another senior citizen received a notice claiming he had not paid a toll road bill. He was ordered to pay within 12 hours to avoid late fees, which would reportedly be reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles. Recognizing the message as a scam, he notified the Sheriff's Office instead of paying.

Bogus Sheriff's Sergeant Call

Another man reported receiving a call from someone claiming to be a sheriff’s sergeant. When he checked the reverse phone number, it was linked to a company related to international businesses in China.

Important Reminder

The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office does not call people and threaten to arrest them or demand money. If you receive such a call, simply hang up to protect yourself.

Stay vigilant and informed to avoid falling victim to these scams. If you suspect a scam, report it to the authorities immediately.