Scammers Imitate Officers to Gain Personal Information
Scammers Imitate Officers
to Gain Personal Information
There have been several reports of someone impersonating an officer, claiming to be calling about a legal matter that requires immediate attention.
One such call was provided by a citizen saying they received a phone call from someone identifying themself as “Officer Hooth” with U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. Rest assured, Chief Hooth is still head of the Milbank Police department and does not work for U.S. Customs and Border patrol.
Many times these imposters will try to pressure an individual into providing personal and bank account information, or other forms of payment, including gift cards. Some of the reasons given may be to satisfy an arrest warrant or that a family member or “grandchild” is in jail and needs money to bond out.
If in doubt, contact the named law enforcement directly to receive the most accurate information or contact non-emergency services at 605-432-5658, to report the scam.
A reminder, officers will never ask for payment to avoid arrest or warrant, any call asking for the individual to pay over the phone with gift cards or money orders is a scam and an officer will almost always ask that the individual call dispatch.
