The Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a series of phone scams in which callers are falsely claiming to be law enforcement officers in an effort to obtain money from the public.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, reports have been received of individuals calling citizens and identifying themselves as deputies. In several cases, the callers have told residents that an arrest warrant has been issued for missed jury duty and that immediate payment is required to avoid arrest. Officials say these scammers often use spoofed caller ID numbers to make the calls appear legitimate.

The Sheriff’s Office stresses that these calls are fraudulent and is reminding the public of several important facts. Deputies will never call to request money, fees, gift cards, or electronic payments. Law enforcement will not negotiate a person’s release from jail over the phone, nor will deputies threaten arrest as a way to collect money. In addition, officials caution that caller ID information can be falsified and should not be trusted as proof of legitimacy.

Residents who receive a call of this nature are urged to hang up immediately, avoid providing any personal or financial information, and not send money under any circumstances. Anyone unsure about the validity of a call is encouraged to contact the Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office directly to verify the information.

Officials say public awareness is one of the best defenses against scams and encourage residents to share this warning with family members, friends, and especially elderly relatives who are often targeted by these schemes.

The Sheriff’s Office continues to monitor reports and reminds the public to remain cautious when receiving unexpected calls claiming to involve legal matters or law enforcement action.