Crime & Public Safety
Lee County resident targeted by caller impersonating sheriff’s deputy, avoids loss
A Lee County resident received a phone call at work from someone impersonating a Lee County sheriff’s deputy and avoided becoming a victim after coworkers recognized the scam and urged her to hang up. The caller used threats of arrest over missed jury duty and pressured the target to purchase a money voucher at an ATM and read the voucher number aloud — a ruse investigators say is used to drain funds.
According to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the caller kept the target on the line while instructing her to obtain payment via an alleged “sheriff-approved” ATM. Coworkers intervened, prompting the resident to end the call and contact 911. Authorities report the scheme has been reported across the Gulf Coast and can target adults of any age.
Trish Routte of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Crime Stoppers told investigators that there are no “sheriff-approved ATMs,” and reiterated that the sheriff’s office does not collect payments for fines or fees. The agency described the pattern: scammers impersonate deputies, threaten arrest or legal consequences, and request voucher numbers or other payment information to complete thefts.
The person targeted has shared her experience on social media to warn others. The sheriff’s office continues public outreach to remind residents that legitimate law-enforcement contacts will not demand immediate payment via ATMs or vouchers.
All individuals accused of a crime are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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All individuals mentioned in criminal allegations are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.