Area Residents Warned About Latest Phone Scam

Buchanan County authorities are warning area residents of the latest telephone scam.

A local resident reported receiving a phone call from a person who identified themselves as a Lieutenant in the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office.

The caller told the person that there is an active warrant for his or her arrest, but because they had no other criminal history, the scammer could get the bond reduced to $500.

The victim was told to go to a local business and buy a pre-paid card in the amount of $500, then give the PIN number to the scammer, sheriff's officials said.

According to authorities, one resident has been a victim of the scam so far. Other Buchanan County residents have reported getting calls, but not complying.

Buchanan County sheriff's officials reiterated that all calls of this type are a scam. They said no one in any sheriff's department contacts people with warrants by telephone. Also, bond money cannot collected by phone or pre-paid cards.

Anyone receiving such a call, should hang up, and call local authorities.