Mercer Sheriff Jack Kemler warns of telephone scam

Once again, Mercer County Sheriff Jack Kemler has issued a warning to area residents regarding telephone scammers posing as Mercer County Sheriff’s Officers. Mercer County Sheriff’s Office

Over the past several days, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office has received numerous complaints from the public about suspected phone scams asking residents for personal bank account information and immediate cash payments. The scammers spoofing a 609- area code identify themselves as Mercer County Sheriff’s Officers, sometimes posing as a Sergeant or Lieutenant on the telephone. The callers stated they had an urgent matter involving an arrest warrant or similar legal matter, asking for immediate money or personal information such as bank accounts and social security numbers.

“I strongly remind residents the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office will never call anyone and ask for personal account information or request money to clear up a warrant or any other type of legal matter under my jurisdiction,” said Sheriff Kemler. Unfortunately, it is difficult to crack down on telephone scammers because calls are often generated from phone banks out of state. While the calls remain under investigation, exercising common sense is best. If a resident suspects a particular telephone call may be a scam, do not give out any personal information and simply hang up. Anyone who receives such a call should report the call to the MC Sheriff’s Office at 609-989-6111.