They’re Pretending to Be Deputies: Sheriff Warns of Scam Calls and How to Protect Yourself

If you received a phone call this month from someone claiming to be a Barry County deputy — saying you missed jury duty or demanding money — you were likely targeted by a scammer. The Barry County Sheriff’s Office has posted multiple warnings about impersonation scams where callers claim to be deputies or federal agents and pressure victims for money or personal information. These posts are public and come directly from the Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

How the scam works (from local warnings)

• A caller claims to be from law enforcement or a federal agency and says you failed to appear for jury duty, owe a fine, or have a warrant.

• The caller pressures you to pay immediately, sometimes with a prepaid card, gift card, or electronic transfer, or asks for identity details.

• In other versions, the scam involves “DNA” or other fake legal processes; the Sheriff’s Office has called several variations outright scams.

Why local residents should take it seriously

These scams are not rare, and they can be devastating. Older adults are often targeted and can be convinced to send large amounts quickly. The Sheriff’s Office repeatedly emphasizes: real deputies will not call and demand instant payment or personal financial information. If you’re unsure, hang up and call the non-emergency dispatch number to check.

Practical steps to protect yourself

1. Don’t give money or account info over the phone. Legitimate law enforcement never demands payment by gift card or money transfer.

2. Verify independently. If someone claims to be a deputy, hang up and call Barry County Central Dispatch at 269-948-4801

   . Ask whether a deputy attempted to contact you. (Don’t use the number the caller provides.)

3. Register for official alerts. Sign up for Alert Barry County to get verified local notifications rather than relying on random phone calls. (See signup links below.)

4. Report the scam. File a complaint with the Sheriff’s Office (through their public phone line) and with the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division if you lost money.

Why this is an ongoing issue

Scammers modify tactics constantly. The Sheriff's Facebook posts show an ongoing pattern — with the office warning the public about new variants as they appear. Because social media posts reach residents quickly, the Sheriff uses Facebook to push out timely warnings. That’s why following the Sheriff’s official page (and verifying posts) is a good idea.

Helpful links and where to go for help

• Barry County Sheriff — official Facebook updates and warnings: https://www.facebook.com/BarryCoSheriff/.

• Barry County Central Dispatch — Alert signup (Alert Barry County): https://barry911.org/alert-barry-county.

• Smart911 / Barry County signup portal: https://www.smart911.com/smart911/ref/login.action?pa=barrycounty.

If you or an older family member got called, share this article with them. Don’t let scammers weaponize fear — verify, then act.