Kenosha, WI (WLIP)–The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department is warning residents about scammers impersonating law enforcement officials to demand payments.

The department reminds the community that legitimate deputies will never request gift cards, cash, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers, nor will they threaten arrest if these demands are not met.

Scammers have been contacting local residents, falsely claiming that a loved one is in jail or that the victim has missed a court date, urging immediate payment to avoid arrest or release the loved one.

The Sheriff’s Department advises individuals to verify claims by contacting family members directly or calling the relevant jail or court.

Additionally, scammers are spoofing phone numbers to appear as though they are calling from the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department, so residents should be cautious when returning these calls and instead independently contact local law enforcement.

If you suspect a scam, the best course of action is to hang up and dial 262-605-5100 to verify any communication with the Sheriff’s Department.

Sheriff David W. Zoerner emphasized the department’s commitment to transparency and urged the public to spread awareness to prevent further scams in the community.