Robeson County Sheriff’s Office Warns Residents of Jury Duty Scams

The Robeson County Sheriff's Office issued a warning Monday about scammers pretending to be law enforcement officers. These criminals steal money through fake jury duty calls.

The scam appears periodically in North Carolina, particularly around the holiday season. Older residents are targeted and face a greater risk, but anyone can fall victim.

Members of the public have reported losing thousands of dollars to these scams. The penalty for disobeying a jury summons in North Carolina is $50 for each time a juror fails to appear, according to state statute. That's it.

The caller will claim to be a judge, court member, local police, sheriff's office representative, or federal agency official. Scammers often use the name of a real judge or officer found in public sources. They may spoof caller ID information.

The perpetrators claim the person failed to appear for jury service and that a warrant has been issued for their arrest. They then demand payment of a fine or bond through prepaid debit or gift cards, which makes it impossible to get back the money and difficult to track down the scammer. This method leaves no trace.

The scammers also ask for personal information. Officials urge anyone receiving such a call to hang up without providing any information.

Residents should report suspicious calls or emails to their local Sheriff's Office. Victims can also contact the North Carolina Attorney General's Office or call 1-877-5-NO-SCAM. The Federal Trade Commission accepts reports of scams and suspicious communications.

People can confirm if they have been selected for jury service or failed to appear by contacting the clerk of the superior court office in their county.