The Maryland Judiciary has issued a warning to the public about a telephone scam targeting individuals in Baltimore County. This fraudulent scheme involves callers pretending to be officers from the local sheriff's office, threatening arrest for failing to appear in court, and attempting to extort money.
According to reports, the scam is similar to one that occurred in Howard County last year. The perpetrators contact potential victims, claiming a judge has issued a bench warrant for their arrest due to missing a court hearing. Victims are told that summonses were sent to their work addresses and signed by someone at their office. To resolve the issue, victims are instructed either to meet for handwriting analysis or risk being picked up by law enforcement. They are then directed to purchase a "bond voucher" worth several hundred dollars while remaining on the line with the caller.
"This call is a scam," warns the Maryland Judiciary. Individuals receiving such calls should disconnect immediately and ignore any messages with similar claims.
The Maryland Judiciary has informed the State’s Attorney's Offices in Baltimore County about these scams. Those affected can also reach out to the Office of the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division or local law enforcement for assistance.
Authorities emphasize that courts do not notify individuals of bench warrants via phone calls nor request "bond vouchers." Additionally, courts do not solicit payments or personal information through calls or emails and will never ask for credit card or PayPal details over these channels.
For anyone who receives suspicious communications regarding court cases or arrest warrants, it is advised they contact their District Court or Circuit Court directly using contact information available on the Maryland Judiciary website.