COLUMBUS – Bartholomew Superior Court Judge Jim Worton and the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department warned residents about a scam targeting individuals by falsely claiming they’ve missed jury duty. Scammers use the judge’s name and threaten arrest unless hefty fines are paid.
According to authorities, the scam involves fraudulent warrants bearing the victim’s name, adding legitimacy to the threats. Judge Worton confirmed that he has issued no such warrants and that this is a complete scam.
The sheriff’s department reports that scammers often impersonate law enforcement officials, attempting to extract personal information or payments by phone. They frequently use “spoofing” technology to make caller ID displays appear legitimate.
Officials are urging residents to be vigilant and never to provide personal or financial information to unknown callers. Law enforcement will never request payment over the phone to avoid arrest.
Anyone with questions or concerns is advised to hang up on suspicious callers and contact the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department directly at 812-379-1650 or the Bartholomew County dispatch center at 812-379-1689.
