The Lincoln Police Department is warning the public about a jail release scam that has cost two victims nearly $2,000. Police say two cases were reported on August second and fifth. “The first involved a scammer calling the family member of a recently released individual saying the person arrested had been mistakenly released and they needed to pay $485 for an ankle monitor or they would put out a warrant,” says Public Information Manager Erika Thomas.
She says the victim paid $200 with a credit card. “The second involved a scammer calling the family member of a person in jail requesting $2,000 for an ankle monitor and release,” Thomas says. The victim sent three payments through a money order for a total loss of $1,962.”
Thomas says both victims learned they had been scammed when they arrived at the jail to pick up the ankle monitor. “The Lancaster County Department of Corrections will never ask for credit card or debit card information via calls, emails, or text messages,” Thomas says.
“All payments are processed on-site or via the Access Corrections website system.” Thomas says if you receive one of these calls, emails, or texts, or have questions regarding the Access Corrections systems, contact the Department at 402-441-1900 for assistance.