Beware of a Scam Targeting Fresno County Jail
August 9, 2026 – Fresno County Sheriff's Office officials issue an announcement to be aware of a scam targeting 
Fresno County Jail.
The modus operandi is that a person makes random calls to residents, identifying themselves as a high-ranking member of our department. Often, it is described that this person speaks with a pronounced southern accent. It is a scammer who does not work for the Fresno County Sheriff's Office.
In documented cases, the scammer claims that the imprisoned individual can be released from jail by paying a fee through cryptocurrencies, gift cards, or digital payment services such as Zelle, Cash App, etc. The cost can rise to hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The victim is told that the imprisoned person will be placed on an ankle monitor and assigned to an intervention program; once the program is completed, the monitor could be returned to jail for a refund of the money. We reiterate: this is FALSE.
The Fresno County Sheriff's Office wants to clarify to the public that it never requests money or demands payment over the phone.
We believe this person or group is investigating our public income records at the jail and then cross-referencing data from online databases to locate the name and phone number of a family member. Subsequently, the scammer calls the family member, takes advantage of their fear, and tries to convince them to make the payment.
It is important that everyone is aware of this trend and talks to family and friends to educate them and help them identify these fraud attempts. If you receive a similar call, do not give in to the caller's demands or provide personal information. Please note any relevant information, such as the name or phone number of the person calling, and report the incident to the police agency in your jurisdiction. The Fresno County Sheriff's Office allows online reporting for this type of situation; visit www.fresnosheriff.org and click on "Report a Crime" (Report a crime) at the top of the page. To report, select the option "Harassing Phone Call".
View Channel 47 video here.
You can also file a report online with the FBI at: https://www.ic3.gov.
Source: Fresno County Sheriff's Office
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