KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Several Sheriff’s Offices across East Tennessee are receiving increased reports of phone scams.
Loudon County Sheriff’s Office reported people receiving calls from someone identifying himself as “Lt. Johnson,” who claims he is over a special jail program related to overcrowding, and their loved ones cannot be released from jail until after the holidays. He then claims he can secure an early release if money is paid immediately.
The Loudon County Sheriff’s Office is asking citizens to be aware, and reminds that:
- The Loudon County Sheriff’s Office will not call anyone requesting money.
- LCSO does not use third parties to solicit money on their behalf.
- There is no program that allows release from jail in exchange for payment over the phone.
- Scammers may provide information that sounds official, but the details they give may be inaccurate, inconsistent, or differ from verified information.
Anderson and Blount counties are having similar issues with scam calls. The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office posted on Facebook that some scammers even use the names of real officers to gain trust and credibility with their victims…