The Webster Parish Sheriff's Department has posted a new "Fraud Alert" on the Public Notices section of their website.  Visitors are encouraged to educate themselves in order to prevent being victimized.

This particular scam involves "mystery shoppers" and recipients are given a check through the mail with instructions to transfer some of the money via Western Union after deposit of the check.  After the wired money is received (usually picked up in another country), the deposited check suddenly bounces, leaving the victim at a loss of the amount they previously transferred.

While such scams go to great lengths to look legitimate, they are not.  Real phone numbers, friendly representatives, familiar bank names and customer surveys are examples of how they pose themselves as valid companies.  Visit our Public Notices page to learn more and view an example.

Additionally, another recent telephone scam is sweeping through the area.  Callers pose as a relative (grandchild, etc.) who has ended up in jail and needs wired money to bond out.  Anyone who receives such a call should verify every bit of information before wiring any money.

The Sheriff's Office asks that anyone who is approached via mail, phone or in person with these or other suspected scams to please call investigators at 318-377-1515.

Webster Parish Sheriff's Department
Sheriff Gary S. Sexton
410 Main Street
P.O. Box 877
Minden, LA  71058
318-377-1515
admin@webstersheriff.org