Impersonation Scam Targeting Families of Inmates

We want to make our community aware of a serious and ongoing fraud scheme that is affecting families and friends of individuals who have recently been arrested and booked into Florida county jails.

Multiple reports indicate that an unknown individual or group is obtaining information about recently arrested persons and then contacting their loved ones while they are experiencing one of the most stressful and vulnerable moments of their lives.

The scammers are falsely claiming to be:

• ✦Licensed bail bondsmen
• ✦Probation officers
• ✦Court officials
• ✦Representatives of county-funded "Pretrial Release" programs
• ✦Other law enforcement or government-affiliated personnel

Victims are being told they must immediately pay court fees, bond amounts, GPS monitoring fees, pretrial release costs, or other alleged charges. In many cases, the scammers use fear and urgency, claiming that failure to make payment will result in the inmate being denied release or even re-arrested.

Law enforcement agencies, including the Lee County Sheriff's Office, are aware of these reports and the multiple fraud cases associated with this scheme. However, like many fraud investigations, identifying and prosecuting those responsible can be challenging.

Protect Yourself & Your Family

We are asking all members of the community to remain vigilant and take the following precautions:

• Never send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or electronic payments to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly regarding an inmate's release.
• Verify all information directly with the jail, court, probation office, or licensed bail bond agency before making any payment.
• Be suspicious of callers who pressure you to act immediately or threaten consequences if payment is not made.
• Confirm the identity of any person claiming to represent a government agency, court program, or bail bond company.
• Report any suspicious calls, texts, emails, or payment requests to local law enforcement.

Our goal is not to create fear, but to protect families during a difficult time. No one should become the victim of a scam while trying to help a loved one.

Please share this warning with friends, family members, community organizations, and anyone who may have a loved one involved in the criminal justice system. Increased awareness is one of the strongest tools we have to prevent further victimization.

If you receive a suspicious call regarding an inmate's release, stop, verify the information independently, and never feel pressured to make an immediate payment.