Perry County sheriff warns residents of fake federal arrest warrant scam

FOX23 Sales Team

PERRY COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) — The Perry County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam involving fake federal arrest warrants sent by text message.

The sheriff’s office said a Perry County resident recently received a text containing what appeared to be a federal arrest warrant with the resident’s name on it.

Officials said several details indicated the document was fraudulent, including unusual references to a “gag order,” instructions not to disclose the warrant and information about payments, bonding, reimbursements and fees.

The sheriff’s office emphasized that federal courts do not send arrest warrants to individuals by text message or demand payments to avoid arrest.

Anyone who receives a similar message should not send money, provide personal information or follow instructions included in the message.

Residents who are unsure whether a warrant or other notice is legitimate are encouraged to contact local law enforcement directly to verify the information.