The Benton County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam targeting families of people currently incarcerated at the county jail.
The sheriff’s office said it has received multiple reports in recent days from family members who were contacted by scammers demanding payment for their loved ones’ release. According to authorities, the callers appear to be using the publicly available online jail roster to identify potential victims.
The scammers tell family members that inmates can be released immediately with an ankle monitor if they pay $3,000, officials said.
Sheriff Jef Van Arsdall emphasized that the claims are false and that the Benton County Jail does not authorize or accept payment over the phone or through third parties for inmate releases.
“Our staff will never contact a family member asking for money to release an AIC,” Van Arsdall said, referring to adults in custody. “If you receive one of these calls, hang up immediately and report it.”
The sheriff’s office advises residents not to send money or share financial information over the phone. Anyone who receives a suspicious call can verify its legitimacy by contacting the Benton County Jail directly at 541-766-6866.
Suspected scam calls can be reported to the sheriff’s office at 541-766-6858.