The Maryland Judiciary has issued a warning to the public regarding a telephone scam related to jury duty. The scam involves callers claiming to represent a Circuit Court, informing individuals that they have been charged with contempt for failing to report for jury duty. The caller then refers to a judge by name and demands payment over the phone using a pre-paid card.
"This phone call is a scam, and anyone receiving a call like this should hang up and disregard the call," stated the Maryland Judiciary.
Maryland courts do not request payment over the phone for fines related to missing jury duty. Instead, courts communicate with citizens about jury service through mail. Any issues with jury service would result in a mailed notice requiring court appearance, where any fines or penalties would be addressed by a judge in person.
The Judiciary has identified that this scam is currently active in Prince George’s County but advises all residents of Maryland to remain vigilant.
To verify juror status or report suspicious calls related to jury duty, individuals are encouraged to contact their Circuit Court jury office. Contact details for courts can be found on the Maryland Judiciary website at www.mdcourts.gov under "Locate a Maryland Court."
For additional information on recognizing, reporting, and preventing telephone scams, resources are available on the Federal Trade Commission's website at consumer.ftc.gov/scams.