The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public about an ongoing phone scam in which a caller falsely claims to be a high-ranking member of the department and demands money.

Authorities say they have received multiple reports of a man with a strong southern accent making random calls to residents. In the reported cases, the caller tells victims they can secure the release of a loved one from jail by paying a fee through cryptocurrency or digital payment services such as Zelle or Cash App.

The scammer claims the jailed individual would be placed on an ankle monitor and enrolled in an intervention program, with the promise of a full refund once the program is completed. Officials emphasized the claims are false.

The sheriff’s office said it never solicits money or requests payment of fines over the phone.

Officials warned that such scams often target elderly or vulnerable individuals and tend to occur in waves. Residents are urged not to provide personal information or send money if they receive similar calls.

Anyone who receives a suspicious call is encouraged to document details such as the caller’s name or phone number and report it to their local law enforcement agency. Reports can also be filed online through the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office under “Harassing Phone Call.”

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