Neosho Police Department warms of arrest warrant scam

(From the Neosho Police Department)

The Neosho Police Department is alerting residents about an active phone scam targeting individuals in the Neosho area. The department has received multiple reports of residents being contacted by a caller claiming to be a Sheriff’s Deputy, Police Officer or other Law Enforcement.

In each case, the caller provides personal information related to the individual and states that they
have an active arrest warrant. The caller then sends fraudulent “documents” by text message to make
the claim appear legitimate. The caller ultimately demands payment, typically through gift cards, to resolve the supposed warrant.

Residents are urged to educate themselves to avoid becoming victims of a scam.

Law enforcement does not:

• Request payment over the phone

• Accept gift cards, prepaid cards, wire transfers, or digital app payments

• Send warrants or legal documents by text message

• Threaten arrest to force someone to pay

Residents should be alert for:

• Requests for payment by gift card

• High-pressure threats or urgent demands

• Instructions to keep the call secret

• Unsolicited legal documents sent via text

What To Do If You Receive One of These Calls

• Stay calm

• Do not provide any personal information

• Do not send money in any form

• Hang up immediately

• Contact the Neosho Police Department to report the scam or verify the call

These scams continue because they rely on fear and quick reactions. By understanding how the scam works and discussing it with friends and family, residents can help stop the spread of this fraudulent activity.

To Report a Scam or to get more information, contact the Neosho Police Department at 417-451-8012.