Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Phone scammers impersonating as the Virginia State Police (VSP) have been making fraudulent phone calls to Virginia residents claiming to have warrants for their arrest for missing jury duty.

A VSP news release noted that state police have learned of several incidents that have occurred in which residents were contacted by a caller claiming to be a Trooper Cole Jackson or Lt. Cole Jackson. After making contact, the scammer claims that the resident has missed jury duty, for which a warrant will be issued for the resident’s arrest. But the scammer says this can be avoided by paying a nominal fee up front. The scammer then attempts to provide instructions to make a wire transfer.

As scammers often use spoofing applications and/or other forms of technology to falsely represent false phone numbers they are calling from, the phone numbers used vary and change often.

The Virginia State Police or any law enforcement agency would NEVER demand money in lieu of an arrest or consequential action.

VSP officials concluded the release by stating, “If you or anyone you know has been a victim of this impersonator, or if you have any questions or concerns in reference to this scam, contact the Virginia State Police at 757-253-5083.”