Sheriff warns of bond scam targeting families of inmates
By Angela Williams
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RANKIN COUNTY, Mississippi (WAPT) — The Rankin County Sheriff’s Department is warning the public about a bond scam targeting families of inmates both in-state and out-of-state.
The scheme involves suspects posing as “bond agents” and promising to secure the release and transfer of inmates to rehabilitation facilities in exchange for money.
“This is a scam,” the department said.
Authorities are urging anyone who receives unsolicited calls from “bond agents” or “bonding companies” asking for payment related to the bond of an incarcerated loved one to hang up immediately.
The department advises contacting the law enforcement agency or the detention facility holding the loved one to verify the situation.
“Remember, do not provide your financial account information to anyone over the phone,” the department said. “Do not provide your personal identity information to anyone over the phone.”
If you or someone you know receives a suspicious phone call or believes they have been scammed, the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department encourages reporting the incident to your local law enforcement agency or contacting them directly at 601-825-1480.
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