The South Dakota Unified Judicial System (UJS) has issued a warning about a jury duty scam affecting residents in central South Dakota. Reports have been received by the Stanley County Sheriff's Office from more than 30 individuals who encountered suspicious phone calls claiming they missed federal jury duty. The scam suggests that a $2,000 warrant has been issued for their arrest unless payment is made via Bitcoin at a local convenience store. At least one victim has reported a financial loss of $4,000.
The fraudulent calls are being made from various phone numbers, with scammers leaving callback numbers and impersonating officials from the Stanley County Sheriff's Office. In some instances, scam emails have been used, featuring the Stanley County Sheriff's Office logo to lend authenticity.
Officials advise anyone receiving such calls or emails to avoid providing personal information or payments. Authorities emphasize that South Dakota courts do not seek payments or personal data from prospective jurors via phone calls.
For additional information about state jury duty in South Dakota, individuals can visit https://ujsjurors.sd.gov/. Information regarding federal jury duty is available at https://www.sdd.uscourts.gov/.