The Alameda County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a phone scam in which callers falsely claim a family member at Santa Rita Jail can be released early in exchange for payment.
According to the sheriff’s office, scammers tell victims inmates qualify for an early release program because of jail overcrowding and demand money for an electronic ankle monitor.
Authorities said callers may use publicly available inmate information and spoof local phone numbers while posing as sheriff’s deputies.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that neither it nor any other law enforcement agency will ever request payment for ankle monitor programs, missed court appearances, arrest warrants or other legal matters.
Officials urged anyone who receives a suspicious call, text or email not to provide personal information or send money, even if the caller appears credible or uses the names of sheriff’s office employees.
Residents who believe they have been targeted are encouraged to contact the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office’s nonemergency line at (510) 667-7721 and report suspected fraud to the Federal Trade Commission.