RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - Scammers are once again proving that their creativity knows no bounds. Their latest trick? Posing as Sheriff’s deputies to weasel your hard-earned cash right out of your pockets. How charming.

Using names like Sgt. Shawn Jones and Sgt. Robert Horne, these fraudsters have cooked up a delightful scheme involving fake phone numbers and threatening calls. The latest ploy involves telling unsuspecting residents that they missed jury duty or have a warrant issued against them. A classic tale of "you’re in trouble, but I can help—for a price," right?

One resident, savvy enough to not take the bait, received a voice mail about an "urgent case regarding important legal information." The caller, in a dazzling display of phoniness, directed her to call 615-659-1790. Instead of complying, she did the smart thing: She called the actual Sheriff's Office to confirm it was an attempt to get money. Kudos to her!

A big red flag? The scammer couldn’t even pronounce "Rutherford County" correctly. Nice try, scammer, but locals can spot a fraud from a mile away when you butcher the name of their home turf.

Here’s a pro tip: don’t fall for these high-pressure tactics. If you get one of these calls, you have two great options: don’t answer, or just hang up. Real Sheriff's deputies don’t call residents about missing jury duty or warrants. They deliver court documents directly to your home. Much more official, wouldn’t you say?

If you ever need to verify such information, just call Dispatch at 615-898-7770. Remember, keeping your cash safe means staying a step ahead of these scam artists.