Salina Resident Loses $1,000 in Jury Duty Warrant Scam
Salina Police are warning residents about an ongoing phone scam after a Salina resident reported losing $1,000 to a caller impersonating law enforcement.
A 40-year-old Salina resident reported receiving a phone call on Sept. 11 from someone claiming to be with the Saline County Sheriff's Office. The caller reportedly spoofed the agency's phone number and told the victim they had an outstanding warrant for missing jury duty.
According to the report, the caller instructed the victim to respond to the sheriff's office with identification and proof of address while remaining on the phone during the drive. The victim was told they were under a "gag order" and could not hang up or speak with anyone else.
The caller then sent a document purporting to be a warrant. The document allegedly stated the victim was to appear before a United States magistrate judge and contained signatures attributed to "Lt. Allen Hashbec" and "Sgt. Lewis Hall."
The victim was told they would need to have payment available upon arrival at the sheriff's office or face spending the weekend in jail. The caller then directed the victim to withdraw $1,000 in cash. After the withdrawal was made, the caller instructed the victim to deposit the money into a Coinhub ATM located at 2140 W. Crawford and provided a QR code for the transaction. The victim complied and deposited the funds.
Police emphasized that no legitimate law enforcement agency will demand payment electronically to resolve a warrant or criminal matter.
The Salina Police Department advises anyone receiving a similar call to hang up, independently locate the agency's official phone number, and contact the agency directly. Police also warn that requests to withdraw cash, purchase gift cards, deposit funds into cryptocurrency kiosks, remain on the phone throughout the process, avoid speaking with family members, or follow scripted instructions are common indicators of a scam. Anyone who receives such a call is encouraged to end the conversation and contact local law enforcement.
