Las Vegas police are warning residents about a jury duty scam circulating across the valley. The criminals behind it rely on fear, urgency, and official-looking details to pressure victims into paying money.
The scam often begins with a telephone call or text message. Someone claiming to be a police officer, court employee, or Clark County official says you failed to appear for jury duty. The caller may know your name, use the name of a real officer, display a spoofed government telephone number, or send a realistic-looking warrant.
You are then told that an arrest warrant has been issued and that you must pay a fine or bond immediately. Payment may be requested through gift cards, cryptocurrency, a wire transfer, a payment app, or cash.
Some scammers order victims to remain on the telephone and warn them not to discuss the supposedly confidential matter with family members.
Another version uses a fake citation claiming to come from the Clark County Clerk’s Office. It may reference the Regional Justice Center, include names of real officials, and demand a $600 fee. The document may look impressive, but it is fraudulent.
Real courts and police officers do not demand immediate payment by telephone or text. They will not require gift cards or cryptocurrency to prevent an arrest.
If you receive one of these calls, stay calm and hang up. Do not provide your Social Security number, birth date, banking information, or payment details. Do not trust caller ID or use a telephone number supplied by the caller.
Verify the claim independently through the court’s website or call LVMPD’s non-emergency number at 702-828-3111.
Save any messages or documents as evidence. If you already sent money, contact your bank immediately and file a police report.
Remember: Legitimate jury service never requires an urgent telephone payment.
