FORT WORTH, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) – The Tarrant County DA’s office is warning residents about an ongoing telephone scam that can trick people into paying phony fines to avoid being arrested for missing jury duty.

Officials say that suspects have been identifying themselves Lieutenant Allen with the Sheriff’s office, Police Dept, and Constable’s office, and are calling citizens to telling them that there is a warrant out for their arrest for failing to appear for jury duty.

The suspects then tell the individual they can avoid being arrested if they pay a fine, ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 – which can be paid with a pre-paid debit card. They are then instructed to give the information over the phone.

The caller usually tells them to report to Judge Thomas Wright at a specific court location.

Officials say Tarrant County Jury Services would never contact you by phone to pay a fine for failing to appear for jury service.

Instead they will send a failed to appear notice before taking any action. If a warrant is issued for your arrest, there is no warning phone call – and the courts do not allow citizens to pay a fine in lieu of jury service.

Police say if you think you are being scammed, write down the phone number the person is calling from. Do not give the caller any personal information about yourself. Contact your local police department and request to file a complaint.

Online: Tarrant Co Jury Duty Scam

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