Downers Grove Resident Targeted By Caller Posing As Sheriff's Office

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A Downers Grove resident was recently targeted by a caller who posed as a deputy from the DuPage County Sheriff's Office (DCSO). The victim came into the Downers Grove Police Department while she was on a call with a man who said she had missed jury duty and needed to pay $1,000. The officer spoke with the man, who claimed to be with DCSO and said there were federal marshals present.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing problem of scammers impersonating law enforcement to try and defraud residents. The DuPage County Sheriff's Office has warned of an increase in these types of fraudulent calls, urging residents to be vigilant and never share personal information or send money over the phone.

The details

According to the police report, the caller "continuously interrupted and spoke quickly in an attempt to disorientate" the victim. When the officer asked which department of DCSO the caller was with and requested a callback number, the caller threatened to have the officer's job.

• The incident occurred recently.
• In October, DCSO issued a news release about an increase in these types of fraudulent calls.

What’s next

If you believe you are a victim of such a call, DCSO recommends hanging up immediately and calling the sheriff's office at 630-407-2400 to verify the call and report what happened.