NewsNoticias Tampa Bay (Univision)August 11, 2026Hillsborough
Hidalgo County Sheriff warns residents of scam calls impersonating law enforcement
Sheriff J.E. “Eddie” Guerra warns that scammers are calling residents and impersonating law enforcement officers to demand immediate payments for fake legal issues. These callers may use real names of officers, badge numbers, and spoofed phone numbers to appear legitimate.
Read the full story at Noticias Tampa Bay (Univision)Why It Matters
Residents are being targeted by fraudulent demands for money under the threat of arrest, and the Sheriff’s office confirms that no legitimate law enforcement agency will ever call to demand payment to resolve criminal matters.
Key Facts
- Law enforcement agencies do not call individuals to demand money to avoid arrest or resolve legal issues.
- Scammers are using fake badge numbers, case numbers, and spoofed phone numbers to appear as official agencies.
- Common scam tactics include claiming the victim has an outstanding arrest warrant, missed jury duty, or a pending court appearance.
- The Sheriff advises residents to report suspicious calls to the appropriate public safety agency.
- Residents are encouraged to share this warning with family, friends, and neighbors.