The Federal Trade Commission says Arizonans lost roughly $337 million to fraud in 2024. A new imposter scam targets the family members of those arrested and put in jail.
A bond is money that serves as a promise someone currently in jail will show up on their court date if they’re released.
Officials say scammers are calling families of those recently booked and demanding electronic payment.
“And they somehow have the person’s name, arrest information and date of birth,” said Nicole Garcia, criminal court administrator for Maricopa County Superior Court.
Garcia also said at least three people have been tricked by fraudsters who try to create a sense of urgency.
“These people are at a vulnerable and stressful time in their life. Their family member is in jail and they just want to get them out as quickly as possible. So there is some pressure there," Garcia said.
Garcia said bond payments are set in court and must be made in person.
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