EVERETT — Local law enforcement is warning the public of another scam, this time targeting inmates’ families, friends, neighbors and coworkers.
This is the latest version of multiple phone scams targeting Snohomish County residents.
Scammers use the inmate registry to identify inmates in Snohomish County Jail. After researching these inmates, they contact the individual’s inner circle, stating they’ve been listed as a contact for bail, according to a Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office social media post.
Scammers may impersonate “jail sergeants” and claim the inmate qualifies for a special release program, according to an Arlington Police Department social media post. Police say this scam has been especially difficult for domestic violence victims.
“DV victims relive the trauma of their incident every step of the criminal justice process and every time they are faced with the offender being released or having the potential for release,” said Arlington spokesperson Mandy Kruger in an email. “These calls prey upon the victim’s fears, hopes and emotions.”
Scammers will send a Zelle or Venmo payment link to collect the supposed bail or money to install a “monitoring device.”
This scam is particularly misleading due to the use of real inmates, who show up in the registry when friends and family check. The Snohomish County Jail will not call and ask for money, Kruger said in an email. Individuals who receive these calls should hang up immediately.
Jenna Millikan: 425-339-3035; jenna.millikan@heraldnet.com; X: @JennaMillikan
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