Izard County Sheriff Charley Melton is warning residents about a phone scam in which individuals impersonate members of his office, offering fraudulent services to secure the release of loved ones from jail.
Sheriff Melton stated that his office has received multiple complaints about the scam. Some callers have falsely claimed to provide services, including arrangements involving ankle monitors. Melton advised that the Izard County Sheriff’s Office does not utilize ankle monitors. If electronic monitoring is ordered by a court, it is managed through a third-party company.
Additionally, reports indicate that scammers have offered to accept payments over the phone to facilitate jail releases. Sheriff Melton emphasized that the sheriff’s office does not accept payments over the phone or online for any local services.
Melton urged residents to remain cautious and avoid sharing personal, financial, or payment information with anyone claiming they can secure the release of a jailed family member or friend. "If you receive a suspicious call," he advised, "hang up immediately and contact the Izard County Sheriff’s Office at 870-368-4203 using a verified phone number."
According to the sheriff, these scammers often rely on creating fear and pressuring victims to act quickly. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report incidents of fraudulent calls to local law enforcement.