Scammers Impersonating Police Targeting Alachua Residents

Authorities warn of scams involving fake officers demanding payment to avoid arrest

Apr. 18, 2026 at 7:08pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled $100 bill against a pitch-black background, capturing the dramatic texture and material details under harsh, direct lighting to convey the serious, investigative nature of this crime.As scammers impersonating law enforcement continue to target Alachua residents, the harsh flash photography highlights the stark reality of the financial losses victims can suffer.Alachua Today

Law enforcement in Alachua County, Florida are alerting residents about a rise in scams where individuals impersonating police officers are contacting citizens and demanding payment to avoid arrest or help a jailed family member. The Alachua Police Department and Alachua County Sheriff's Office are urging the public to be wary of these tactics and to report any suspicious calls immediately.

Why it matters

These scams take advantage of people's fear of law enforcement and the criminal justice system, creating a false sense of urgency that makes victims more likely to send money without verifying the claims. Authorities are concerned these impersonation schemes could continue to spread and lead to significant financial losses for vulnerable residents.

The details

The Alachua Police Department has received reports of a scammer posing as 'Sergeant Young' and telling citizens they missed jury duty, demanding a fee to avoid arrest. The Alachua County Sheriff's Office also received a complaint from a resident who lost $2,100 after sending money to someone claiming to be from the department, saying they could help release a jailed family member on bond.

  • On April 17, 2026, the Alachua County Sheriff's Office received a report about the scam involving the $2,100 payment.
  • The Alachua Police Department has been receiving an unspecified number of calls about the 'Sergeant Young' impersonator scam in recent weeks.

The players

Alachua Police Department

The local law enforcement agency in Alachua, Florida that has received reports of scammers impersonating one of their officers.

Alachua County Sheriff's Office

The county-level law enforcement agency in Alachua County, Florida that has also received reports of scammers impersonating their officers and demanding payments.

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What they’re saying

“We want to be clear; it is not standard practice for law enforcement to provide information about probation eligibility or diversion programs in this manner.”

— Alachua County Sheriff's Office

“The Alachua County Sheriff's Office, and law enforcement agencies in general, will never call and demand payment over the phone under any circumstance.”

— Alachua County Sheriff's Office

What’s next

Authorities are urging residents to be vigilant, hang up on any suspicious calls, and report any incidents to their local police department immediately.

The takeaway

These scams targeting Alachua residents highlight the importance of verifying the legitimacy of any calls or messages claiming to be from law enforcement before providing any personal or financial information. Residents should contact their local police department directly using a trusted number to confirm the validity of any claims.