Thieves pose as Volusia County deputies in phone call scam

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — The Volusia County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about a phone call scheme, involving thieves pretending to be deputies.

Officials said the caller tells the victim to immediately pay a fine or a warrant will be issued for their arrest.

The thieves are using the names of real deputies, officials said.

"This is Lt. Paul Kammerer calling with the Volusia County Sheriff's Department," someone could be heard saying in one of the phony calls. "We're calling this morning in regards to a situation that we've had arise that needs your immediate attention."

The Sheriff's Office said it employs a Capt. Paul Kammerer, but he has nothing to do with the scheme.

Deputies said there have been at least five victims who have received the same call.

A victim, who asked to not be identified, said a believable caller told her that there was a warrant for her arrest.

"They told me to go to Winn Dixie buy these MoneyPacks, put $500 on one for the one fine $500 on another, $473 on another," she said. "They told me to go to aisle seven."

The scammer remained on the line until the woman made the purchase. He instructed the victim to scratch the card and to read aloud the numbers and pin on the back, she said.

"I was very scared," she said.

Barbara Stricklin, who also received a call, said she didn't fall for it.

"He proceeded to tell me, 'I'm gonna cut right to the chase,'" Stricklin said.

Her advise for others who receive the call: "You say, 'Thank you very much.'" And you turn around and call (the Sheriff's Office) yourself."

Deputies said no one from their agency will ever call to collect money.

Other stories:

Deputies: Dead dogs found in woman's abandoned home

Tillerson out: Trump says he'll name CIA chief as Secretary of State

Cox Media Group