Families of people locked up at the Shelby County Jail say they have been shaken down by callers posing as bail agents, pressured into sending hundreds of dollars through payment apps or in cash, only to discover their loved ones were still sitting in a cell. They watched their money vanish while the jail roster never changed.
According to FOX13 Memphis, the scammers have been dialing up emergency contacts for people booked at 201 Poplar, demanding quick payment through Cash App, Zelle, or even in-person drop-offs. The station reported that some victims’ cash “ended up padding the pockets of crooks” and did nothing to secure anyone’s release.
Legitimate bail agents say the crooks are hijacking their names and trashing their reputations in the process. Kimberly Charles, president of All N One Bonding & Insurance, told All N One Bail Bonds that scammers have spoofed her company’s phone number and circulated bogus bond IDs that even copy language from out-of-state insurance agencies.
How the scam typically plays out
Investigators and bond professionals say the grift usually starts with public booking lists. Scammers monitor new jail entries, note fresh arrests, then track down family members and emergency contacts. They call with urgent instructions to pay immediately, insisting they can make the bond problem disappear…