Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Warns Seniors Of Resurfaced Scam

The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff, Tony Mancuso wants all elderly residents to be on high alert for a widespread phone scam. The perpetrators are targeting seniors by pretending to be a family member or grandchild in an emergency situation. Sheriff Mancuso said this scam has claimed victims in Calcasieu Parish before. The suspects sometimes claim they are in trouble, in jail, and need money wired to them immediately.

The Sheriff says don't fall for it, this is a scam! The people committing the fraud may even call from a number that looks legit. Regardless, the Sheriff's Office has listed a few tips to help local seniors and residents avoid falling prey.

1.) Don't let anyone pressure you to make a hasty decision. With a scam, fraudsters create a sense of urgency to make their victims act quickly without thinking.

2.) Double check the information the caller is giving you BEFORE sending any money.

3.) Never send money to a person based on a request that came from a phone call or an e-mail.

4.) Keep in mind that wiring money, for example, using money apps like Zelle, PayPal, or Cash App is just like giving a person cash. Once you send it, it's gone.

Don't be a victim. If you or anyone you know believes they have been victimized by these scammers, contact the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office at (337) 491-3605.