Ouachita Parish, LA — The Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office (OPSO) is warning residents about an ongoing phone scam where fraudsters impersonate deputies or investigators from the sheriff’s office.
Residents have reported receiving phone calls from individuals claiming to be with OPSO, threatening arrest unless payment is made over the phone. The scammers are also asking for personal or financial information.
OPSO officials emphasized that the sheriff’s office will never ask for money or demand payment for warrants over the phone.
Public Information Officer, Deputy Amanda Lyon stated, “We will never contact you asking for payment or request any personal or financial information,” said a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office. “If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately and call the OPSO at 318-329-1200 to verify any claims.”
Sheriff’s office representatives stressed that any phone call requesting payment to avoid arrest should be considered fraudulent. They strongly advise residents to be cautious when providing personal details over the phone.
In case of any doubt or if residents suspect they have been targeted by a scam, they are urged to immediately call the sheriff’s office at the number listed above.
“We cannot stress this enough,” Deputy Lyon added. “Please do not fall for these fake phone calls.”
For more information or to report suspicious activity, residents can contact the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office directly at 318-329-1200.
