'Missed Jury Duty' Scams Targeting Morris County Residents: Officials

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — Authorities in Morris County are warning residents of a scam trend that claims that residents missed jury duty and are faced with arrest, unless a fine is paid.

The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and Morris County Sheriff’s Office said that officials have received two reports of this type of scam in the past two weeks, "in which fraudsters call victims claiming a warrant has been issued for their arrest after failing to appear for jury duty."

These callers will pose as law enforcement officers and are "aggressively seeking fines" from residents, telling them they owe money for alleged non-appearances for jury duty. The scammers will often ask the victim not to tell anyone else about the matter, or they will be arrested.

"The scammers may impersonate police officers, providing titles and badge numbers," said officials. They could also spoof the caller I.D. to appear as if they are calling from the Prosecutor's Office, Sheriff's Office, or the Morris County Courthouse.

"Be suspicious of callers or texts who demand immediate payment and/or 'fines' for any reason," authorities cautioned. Legitimate law enforcement agencies "will not tell you to provide money card information or wire money, or ask for cryptocurrency, to avoid arrest," officials added.

To report any suspicious calls regarding alleged non-appearance for jury duty, contact the Morris County Sheriff’s Office at 973-285-6600 during the day and 973-285-2900 after hours, to verify if someone from law enforcement really did contact you.

Click here to read the full news release from officials.