Telephone Scams

Publish Date: 05/01/2019

Annapolis, MD. - The Anne Arundel County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public to beware of a current phone scam from a subject identifying himself as “Sheriff Owens" from The Anne Arundel Sheriff’s Department” - He is trying to motivate people to send pre-loaded money cards to satisfy alleged warrants for arrest.

This is a theft scheme through fraudulent means that has been on-going, and is currently being investigated by the Anne Arundel County Police.

Much like the similar tactics of the past few months, these subject(s) are NOT affiliated with the Anne Arundel County Sheriffs Office. Members of the Sheriffs Office serve warrants - we do not accept, nor do we collect money in exchange to satisfy court documents.

It is important that individuals receiving such calls NOT provide the other party any personal information, nor should they make arrangements to send payment.

Utility companies, reputable organizations and government agencies will NEVER contact you demanding immediate payment, especially via Green Dot Money Pak Cards, other pre-loaded payment cards, or Western Union Money Transfers.

Outstanding summons or warrant status can be confirmed by checking the Maryland Judiciary Case Search at http://casesearch.courts.state.md.us/ or by contacting the Anne Arundel County Sheriff’s Office at (410) 222-1490.

Information related to serving as a Jury or Grand Jury member [for scams referencing that a warrant was issued as a result of failing to appear for Jury Duty] can be confirmed by contacting the Anne Arundel County Circuit Courthouse Jury Office at (410) 222-1400. Grand Jury subpoena-related information can be confirmed by contacting the State’s Attorney’s Office within the Anne Arundel County Circuit Courthouse at (410) 222-1740.

If you have information pertaining to this phone scam, please call the Anne Arundel County Police Department’s non-emergency line at (410) 222-8610.