DALLAS, Texas — A growing phone scam targeting Texas residents has prompted warnings from law enforcement agencies across the state and the nation.
The scheme involves scammers impersonating law enforcement officers, including high-ranking officials, to coerce victims into sending money under false legal pretenses.
The Collin County Sheriff’s Office reported multiple incidents where scammers posed as law enforcement personnel, claiming victims were subject to legal action. In a notable case, a scammer impersonated Collin County Sheriff Jim Skinner, contacting residents and alleging pending legal issues. These calls caused confusion and distress among recipients, who were threatened with arrest unless they made immediate payments.
The scammers reportedly use advanced technology to spoof caller ID, making it appear as though the calls originate from legitimate government agencies. They often use official-sounding language, fake badge numbers, and threats of arrest to pressure victims.
In a related incident, authorities arrested Jolisa Maybin in Dothan, Alabama, for impersonating a law enforcement officer and defrauding a resident of approximately $5,000. Maybin falsely claimed the victim had failed to respond to a subpoena and demanded payment to resolve the fabricated legal issue.
The arrest was made with the assistance of the Houston County Sheriff’s Office. Maybin faces charges of theft and impersonating a public servant.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has urged the public to remain vigilant. Officials advise residents to verify the legitimacy of any legal claims by contacting the agency directly using official numbers listed on government websites. Authorities emphasize that law enforcement agencies will never request payments or sensitive personal information, such as Social Security or bank account numbers, over the phone.
The U.S. Marshals Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are also involved in monitoring these scams and have encouraged the public to report suspicious calls to local authorities or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
