The Prescott Police Department is alerting the public of a new phone scam.
Scammers, using a fake number, have contacted citizens demanding $2,000 for a supposed “failure to appear” for Jury Duty. The caller falsely claims to be with the courts or the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office and instructs the individual to drive to a Coinstar machine to deposit the money, promising a voucher afterward.
Police want to remind everyone that legitimate agencies will NEVER ask for payments over the phone or direct you to use Coinstar machines, Bitcoin, gift cards, or Zelle. If someone requests payment through any of these methods, it’s likely a scam.
Police urge everyone to NOT provide any personal or financial information. You should also hang up immediately if you receive such a call.
If you have fallen victim to a scam and have provided payment or account information, contact your local law enforcement agency.