🚨 Sequatchie County Sheriff Warns of Bail Bond Phone Scam Targeting Residents

The Sequatchie County Sheriff’s Office is alerting residents to a sophisticated phone scam in which callers impersonate law enforcement and pressure victims to send money for bail bonds. At least one county resident has already received such a call, prompting the public warning.

📞 How the Scam Works

Scammers are calling residents and claiming to be with the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department. They tell the person receiving the call that a relative has been arrested and is in jail, then pressure them to send money for bail bond. What makes this scam particularly convincing is that the callers have obtained personal information-including the names of the people they’re calling and the names of their relatives-creating a false sense of urgency and legitimacy. 💰

⚠️ Why This Matters

Scams like this exploit the fear and concern people naturally feel when they believe a loved one is in legal trouble. The criminals’ access to personal details makes victims more likely to trust the caller and act quickly without verifying the claim through official channels. Older adults and others who may be less familiar with scam tactics are particularly vulnerable. ❤️

🛡️ What You Should Do

If you receive a call claiming a relative is in jail and needs bail money, do not provide any information or send any money. Instead, hang up and contact the Sequatchie County Sheriff's Department directly at (423) 949-7750 to verify the claim. You can also reach out to the alleged facility directly using a phone number you know is legitimate. Real law enforcement will never demand payment over the phone for bail. ✅

The Sequatchie County Sheriff’s Office urges residents to share this warning with family members, friends, and neighbors-especially those who may be more susceptible to such schemes. Awareness is one of the best defenses against phone scams.

For more information or to report a scam, contact the Sequatchie County Sheriff's Department:
Phone: (423) 949-7750
Email: Sheriff@Sequatchiecountytn.gov
Address: 351 Fredonia Road, Suite-A, Dunlap, TN 37327