Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office warns of ankle monitor scam

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam involving people impersonating deputies and demanding money over the phone.

According to the sheriff’s office, a recent incident involved a caller who falsely claimed to be a Brunswick County deputy. The scammer contacted the wife of a recently detained individual and requested $800 for so-called “ankle monitor hookup fees,” allegedly required for her husband’s release.

Authorities say this was false.  At the time of the call, the person detained had not yet been served with a warrant by the magistrate, and no release conditions had been set.

The sheriff’s office is reminding the public that it will never request money over the phone in exchange for someone’s release.

“If you receive a call like this, do not send money or give out any personal information,” the department said in a statement. “Hang up and contact the Sheriff’s Office directly at 910-253-2777.”