Deputies with the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office are warning residents about scam callers in the area as of Friday, May 29. These scammers are using fake identities and targeting unsuspecting community members, attempting to steal money.
Scammers Pretending to Be Deputies
According to the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO), the scammers are calling residents and claiming to be “one of their newest deputies.” They pressure people to visit the sheriff’s office and pay fines in cash for alleged outstanding warrants, civil fines, or missed jury duty penalties.
Scams Targeting Families of Inmates
TPSO deputies also reported a scam where callers pretend to be law enforcement and contact relatives of inmates. This week, an elderly resident reportedly lost $1,300 to such a scam.
TPSO Clarifies Official Procedures
Deputies want to assure the public that the TPSO never calls individuals to clear warrants and does not collect fines over the phone. If someone has outstanding tickets or warrants, notifications will always come through official mail. Residents will have multiple safe options to pay any balance.
How Residents Can Protect Themselves
The TPSO advises that anyone receiving a suspicious call claiming to be from the sheriff’s office should hang up immediately. Residents can then call the TPSO directly at 985-748-3334 or 985-748-3328 to verify the call.
Residents are also reminded to never open email attachments from unknown sources and to avoid giving personal information over the phone or through email.
