AUGUSTA COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office says that over the past several days, they have received numerous reports regarding a jury duty scam targeting the community.

Sheriff Donald Smith says callers are falsely identifying themselves as Augusta County deputies and claiming that an arrest warrant has been issued for failing to appear for jury duty. The scammer then attempts to pressure individuals into paying money to avoid arrest.

Smith notes that these calls are fraudulent and do not provide any personal information or payment and hang up immediately.

“The Sheriff’s Office will not contact you by phone and will never ask for any type of payment or personal information over the phone,” said Sheriff Donald Smith. “If you have questions or concerns, I want you to call us directly at 540-245-5333. Do not fall for this scam.”

Anyone who has received one of these calls or provided information to the scammer is encouraged to contact the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office.

ACSO says to stay vigilant and help spread the word to protect others in the community. Remember it is ok to simply hang up the phone.