PARAGOULD, Ark. — The Greene County Detention Center has issued a warning about a phone scam targeting families of inmates. According to Sheriff Brad Snyder, callers posing as jail representatives offer to release inmates to house arrest in exchange for payments ranging from $500 to $1,000.
“These calls are not coming from the jail. They’re from individuals pretending to be connected with it,” Snyder explained. “We don’t do those things — that should be red flag number one. If anybody contacts you about a loved one in jail, we are not going to ask for money over the phone. That’s something that is handled in person at the sheriff’s office.”
The sheriff encouraged anyone who has been targeted or fallen victim to the scam to report it immediately. He also advised residents to hang up if they are uncertain about a call and to independently contact the Greene County Sheriff’s Office to verify its legitimacy.
The scam highlights an evolving trend where perpetrators frequently adjust their tactics to exploit families seeking to assist incarcerated loved ones. Officials emphasized the importance of verifying any unsolicited requests involving financial transactions or legal matters.
For questions or further assistance, the Greene County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to reach out to them directly.
No injuries or arrests related to this scam have been reported at this time. The investigation remains ongoing.