MCSO warns of ongoing phone impersonation scam

MIDLAND COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – The Midland County Sheriff’s Office is warning citizens of ongoing phone scams where the caller impersonates local law enforcement officers, demanding money.

While there are several variations of the scam, MCSO said callers always identify themselves as law enforcement and demand money in the form of gift cards, credit/debit cards, or money apps for things such as a missed court date, missed subpoena, or an active warrant. The caller may also spoof the agency’s phone number when calling so it appears the call is coming directly from the agency.

MCSO is reminding citizens that no law enforcement officer will ever call and demand money over the telephone in lieu of arrest. Residents should not be intimidated by the scammers or give them any personal details over the phone.

If you have any doubts, hang up and call the agency they claimed to be through an official publicized phone number or go to the agency in person with your concerns.

You can call the following agencies directly through these respective numbers:

• Midland County Sheriff’s Office – (432) 688-4600
• Ector County Sheriff’s Office – (432) 335-3050
• Odessa Police Department – (432) 333-3641
• Midland Police Department – (432) 685-7108

Agencies will often have their respective phone numbers listed on the agency’s Facebook page, website, or both.

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