Pennsylvania State Police are investigating a theft by deception that occurred in Alsace Township, where a Fleetwood man was scammed out of $2,000 by an individual posing as a member of the Berks County Sheriff’s Office.
According to a public information release from the Reading Patrol Unit, troopers responded to Cralou Drive on May 29 for a report of a scam. The 64-year-old victim told investigators he received a phone call from someone claiming there was an active arrest warrant against him due to missed jury duty.
The caller, falsely claiming to be a law enforcement official, instructed the man to purchase $2,000 worth of prepaid cards to resolve the warrant. The victim complied and provided the card numbers to the unknown individual.
State Police have not released any information about potential suspects. The investigation is ongoing.
Sheriff’s Office Warns of Similar Scams
The Berks County Sheriff’s Office has issued a public warning about this type of scam, noting that fraudsters are using the names of real employees to make the calls sound legitimate. Sheriff Miller emphasized that the office will never call individuals demanding money or payment over the phone.
To avoid falling victim to such scams: Hang up immediately if someone calls demanding payment on behalf of law enforcement. Do not share personal or financial information with the caller. Report suspicious calls to the Berks County Sheriff’s Office at sheriff@berkspa.gov.
Officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and share this information with family and friends to prevent further incidents.
