New Telephone Scam Claims Sheriffs Are Collecting Fines

CRANSTON, RI—The sheriff's office and the Department of Public Safety are warning people about a new telephone scam. The callers, who sometimes use the names of real deputy sheriffs, tell people they owe a fine and need to meet the sheriff outside the courthouse or in a parking lot to pay up.

According to David M. DeCesare, chief sheriff, at least a dozen people have reported receiving such calls. No single community has been targeted. He wants the public to know the Division of Sheriffs does not collect fines and would never ask people to meet in a parking lot or other locations.

Sheriffs do call people about warrants and other papers, but no payments are ever involved, he said. If you receive such a call asking for money, do not respond, he said. Questions about any calls can be referred to 401-275-2900.