Douglas County Sheriff Warns Residents of Scammers Posing as Officers Demanding Jury Duty Fines

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. — The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) issued an alert warning residents of common scams that have again arisen in the county. Scammers pretend to be law enforcement officers and insist on payment to avoid jury duty or pay outstanding fines.

Douglas County Police Warn Against Scams

Scammers call under fake identities, for example, claiming the person missed jury duty and must immediately pay a $1,000 fine.

Often using the names of real staff members, like Lt. Jerry Tilley, the scammer pressurizes victims to pay the fine through gift cards or cash apps. The Sheriff’s Office has seen the scam before and alerted the public several times over the past few years.

By using the names of real officials to create a sense of legitimacy, scammers exploit fear and urgency.

DCSO confirmed that legitimate law enforcement would never demand payment for fines via cash apps, gift cards, or any other unconventional methods, and they don’t call residents to tell them a warrant has been issued for their arrest.

Undersheriff Brad O’Dell asked the public to share the warning that the tactic is fraudulent, especially with elderly friends and family members. He also suggested that retailers post signs at checkout stands and educate cashiers to recognize warning signs to help protect the public.

Police reminded residents to be cautious when receiving unsolicited calls demanding immediate payment for any alleged fines, especially those related to jury duty. If you receive a scam call:

• Do not engage with the caller.
• Hang up and report the incident to law enforcement.
• Call the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office at (541) 440-4471 to report a scam attempt.