Sheriff’s officials warn about scams targeting the elderly

News

February 26th, 2025 by Ric Hanson

(Harlan, Iowa) – The Sheriff’s of Shelby and Audubon Counties are warning the public about on-going scams targeting the elderly. Shelby County Sheriff Neil Gross says his office was made aware Tuesday (Feb. 24th), about a possible scam, whereby a resident of the County was contacted by someone who informed the elderly person that their grandchild or child had been involved in an accident, and had hurt someone, and was currently in the custody of law enforcement. The person advised that the young person needed bail money to get out of jail, and they would send someone to the residence to receive the funds.

Gross said this is a common story being used in the scams. In this case, the suspect did pick up the money from the residence, but with the assistance of the Audubon County Sheriff’s Office, the individual was arrested, and the cash was taken back by law enforcement. It was also discovered that the suspect was staying in a Guthrie County motel, and was driving a rental vehicle. Sheriff Gross said there is a ring of individuals who are perpetrating the scam in Shelby, and other counties.

He asks you to please contact your elderly parents or grandparents and spread the word. If you receive a call similar to the scam mentioned, contact law enforcement immediately. In some cases, Sheriff Gross says, the scammer will ask you to stay on the phone with them during the incident. If that happens, use another line or text a friend to call law enforcement for you. Authorities will come to the residence immediately, in an attempt to stop the scam, and possibly apprehend the suspect.  If you have any doubts about handing over money to someone you do not know, please call your local sheriff’s office for guidance. Bail bond scam

The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warning to the public regarding a similar, ongoing scam, in which fraudsters posing as bail bondsmen use high-pressure tactics, demand immediate payment via cash, wire transfer, or gift cards, and sometimes even send someone to collect the funds in person. In many cases, they impersonate law enforcement officers, attorneys, or court officials to make the scam appear legitimate.

To avoid falling victim to this scam, the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office urges the public to take the following precautions:
  • Verify the Information – If you receive such a call, contact your local law enforcement agency or jail directly to confirm whether a loved one has actually been arrested.
  • Be Skeptical of Urgent Demands- Legitimate bail bond agencies and law enforcement will never demand immediate payment over the phone or require unconventional payment methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency.
  • Do Not Share Personal Information – Avoid giving out personal details, including financial information, over the phone. Scammers may use these details to make their story more convincing.
  • Trust Your Instincts -If something feels suspicious, hang up and verify the information before taking any action.
If you believe you have been targeted or have fallen victim to this scam, please report it immediately to your local law enforcement agency. By staying vigilant, we can work together to prevent fraud and protect your family and community.