The Alpena County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warning to the public regarding bond scams that are currently circulating in the area. Officials state that scammers are posing as law enforcement or court officials, demanding payment for fake bonds or bail to avoid arrest.
The scams typically involve phone calls where the caller claims that a loved one has been arrested and requires immediate bond payment. Victims are instructed to send money via wire transfer, prepaid cards, or cryptocurrency. The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that legitimate court proceedings never require such urgent or unconventional payment methods.
Residents are urged to verify any such calls by contacting the Sheriff’s Office directly using official phone numbers, and to never share personal or financial information with unknown callers. The public is encouraged to report suspicious activity to local law enforcement to prevent further victimization.