Law enforcement officials are warning Hunterdon County residents to be on alert for a phone scam featuring callers who impersonate officers and demand immediate cash payments over fake legal matters.
The Hunterdon County Sheriff’s Office announced it has received multiple reports of fraudsters contacting residents and falsely claiming they missed a court hearing where they were scheduled to testify as an expert witness.
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The scammers used the actual names of real sheriff’s office personnel, and spoofed the caller ID to display the agency’s genuine phone number, officials said.
In several instances, the callers told victims they had to pay immediate fines to avoid being arrested.
During one reported incident, a scammer demanded $10,000 from a resident for “Failure to Appear,” “Contempt of Court,” and “Avoiding a Civic Duty.” The resident hung up and contacted the sheriff’s office directly.
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Sheriff Fred Brown asked the community to remain cautious when handling unsolicited phone calls that involve threats, financial penalties, or urgent demands for money.
“These scammers are sophisticated and intentionally create fear and urgency to pressure residents into making quick decisions,” Brown said in a statement. “No legitimate law enforcement agency or court official will ever demand payment over the phone, request gift cards, or threaten immediate arrest for failing to comply. If something feels suspicious, hang up and contact your local police department or our office directly.”
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The sheriff’s office noted that authentic law enforcement agencies and court officials will never ask for immediate financial transactions, demand over-the-phone payments, request gift cards, or ask for personal information or account access.
Officials advised residents who receive these fraudulent calls or messages to take the following steps:
• Not respond to the caller or message
• Do not provide personal or financial information
• Do not click links or scan QR codes
• Delete suspicious messages immediately
• Report suspected scam attempts to your local police department
The agency is telling residents to remain alert and share the warning signs with family, friends, and neighbors—particularly seniors and vulnerable individuals.
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Residents with questions or concerns can contact the Hunterdon County Sheriff’s Office directly at 908-788-1166.
