RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN (WGNS News) - Another scam attempt in Rutherford County fell apart when a woman recognized something wasn’t right—and reached out to someone she trusted. The caller, who identified himself as “Lt. Stewart,” told the woman she had three arrest warrants for missing jury duty. He claimed she could avoid being taken into custody by paying $2,600 through Zelle or Venmo.

The scammer sounded polished and authoritative, even dropping the name of Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Keith Lowery to make the call seem legitimate. But Lowery says that tactic is becoming increasingly common, and residents need to know one simple truth. “Law enforcement will not call you and ask you for money,” he said.

Fortunately for the woman, she personally knows Lowery. She told the caller she planned to put him on hold and contact Lowery directly—or drive to the Sheriff’s Office to speak with him. That’s when the scammer doubled down, warning her not to call anyone and insisting the situation was a “confidential matter.” He even claimed she could be stopped by police and taken into custody if she attempted to drive to the Sheriff’s Office.

Instead of giving in, she hung up and called Lowery, who immediately recognized the situation as a scam designed to frighten her into sending money. He assured her she was not in trouble and that the caller had no authority of any kind. She later thanked him for saving her $2,600.

The Sheriff’s Office urges residents to be cautious. Anyone who receives a call demanding payment to avoid arrest should simply hang up. Law enforcement agencies do not collect fines over the phone, do not threaten arrest for missed jury duty, and will never request payment through apps like Zelle or Venmo.