Fake Deputies Threaten Arrest Over Missed Jury Duty in Rutherford County

Jan 29, 2025 at 04:18 pm by WGNS Radio News


RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN – In a plot twist that could rival a crime drama, local residents are being targeted by scammers impersonating sheriff's deputies. Their latest performance? Threatening arrest for missing a federal grand jury session—a session that, unsurprisingly, the targeted individuals were never summoned for.

One resident recounted the unnerving experience: a caller, masquerading as a deputy, demanded an explanation for the missed grand jury. When the resident expressed confusion, the faux deputy escalated the situation by passing the phone to an equally fictitious sheriff. This imposter, in a display of theatrical flair, commanded, "Get the number one cell ready. Get out there and get him," before abruptly ending the call.

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Perplexed by the encounter, the resident wisely contacted the actual Rutherford County Sheriff's Office, who confirmed that no such call had been made. It's worth noting that legitimate deputies do not phone citizens to threaten arrest—especially not for jury duty oversights.

In a high-tech twist, some scammers have even employed artificial intelligence to mimic the voices of real deputies, adding a layer of credibility to their deceit. Victims have been coerced into withdrawing substantial sums and depositing them into bitcoin accounts to avoid these fabricated arrests.

The Sheriff's Office advises residents to remain vigilant. If you receive such a call, simply hang up. For verification or to report the incident, contact the Sheriff's Office directly at 615-898-7770. Remember, in Rutherford County, the real deputies prefer their arrests in person, not over the phone.

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