Court warns of new phone scam

SAN DIEGO (CNS) – Scammers are calling people and demanding payment for a supposedly missed court appearance or failure to appear for jury duty, the San Diego Superior Court reported this week.

Court officials said they have received numerous complaints about such calls, in which someone says an arrest warrant has been issued for not showing up to court. The caller then issues instructions to get convenience store cash cards to pay off the warrants.

“The court does not phone someone to remedy a court issue or fine,” said Michael Roddy, the executive officer of the San Diego Superior Court. “The court sends written notice on official stationery. Court staff or law enforcement will not call someone asking for money. In addition, no one should be insisting you pay a fine in cash.”

Roddy said anyone who receives such a call should hang up or, if the scammer persists, contact their local law enforcement agency.