Sheriff’s Office Investigating Impersonation Scam

CLAYTON, N.C. — The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a scam that left a 71-year-old Clayton woman out $3,000 after she was targeted by a caller impersonating a federal law enforcement officer.

According to authorities, the victim received a phone call recently from an individual who initially claimed to be a federal agent and later identified himself as a U.S. Marshal.

The caller told the woman she had an outstanding arrest warrant and warned that she would be taken into custody and transported to Washington, D.C. unless she immediately paid $3,000 to resolve the matter.

Fearing arrest, the victim followed instructions and purchased $3,000 in gift cards before providing the card numbers to the caller.

After speaking with a family member, she realized she had been the victim of a scam and contacted authorities.

The Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never demand payment over the phone or request payment in the form of gift cards. Officials also encourage residents to verify any suspicious claims by contacting law enforcement directly.

Anyone who receives similar calls is urged not to provide personal or financial information and to report the incident immediately.