Media Release:
The Minot Police Department has received reports of a scam attempt resurfacing in the Magic City. Residents are reporting a variation on what is known as the “Jury Duty” scam. Would be victims are being called by scammers informing them they have a warrant for their arrest, supposedly for “missing a subpoena service”. In order for the victim to clear the warrant without being arrested, they are being directed to pay the bond by “Moneypak” gift cards. Also, the scammers fraudulently appear to be calling from the Minot Police Department on caller-ID through the use of “phone spoofing” apps. These apps permit the caller to make it look as if they are calling from any number they wish.
The Minot Police Department reminds the community that area law enforcement never receives bond for active warrants over the phone and will not direct anyone to used prepaid cards of any kind. The only way to clear active warrants is in-person; either by arrest in the community or of if the defendant turns themselves in to a law enforcement agency or the courts. If someone gets a call saying otherwise, or for any other reason must pay immediately via prepaid cards, IT IS A SCAM. The best defense is to simply hang up.