Woman Loses $650 in Jail Release Scam

The Saline County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam after a woman was deceived into sending money to someone falsely claiming they could arrange the release of a family member from jail.

According to the Sheriff's Office, on June 2, 2026, a 51-year-old woman who lives outside Saline County was contacted by a man claiming to have information regarding a relative who was being held at the Saline County Jail.

The caller told the woman that her relative could be released on bond but would first need an electronic ankle monitor. The caller instructed her to send $650 to begin the process and remained on the phone with her while she followed the directions.

Investigators said the woman drove to Salina, withdrew $650 in cash from her bank, and then went to a local pharmacy and convenience store. The caller sent her two barcodes, which a store clerk scanned to transfer the money.

After the transaction was completed, the caller instructed the woman to take the receipt to the Saline County Jail, telling her that her relative would be released once jail staff received proof of payment.

When the woman arrived at the jail, staff informed her that she had been the victim of a scam and that no payment was required for the release of her relative.

The Saline County Sheriff’s Office reminds the public that law enforcement agencies and jail staff will not call individuals requesting money, gift cards, bank information, debit cards, or other forms of payment on behalf of inmates.

Authorities encourage anyone who receives a similar call to hang up and contact the jail or law enforcement agency directly using a verified phone number before sending any money.