Full Notification

The Clayton County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation into a case known as “The Green Dot Scam”.

Investigators received information from a citizen who stated, they received a phone call from a person, stating he was a Captain from the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office. The Captain impersonator went on the say to the victim that they owed the Sheriff’s Office $982.00 for failing to appear for jury duty. The victim was told to go to Kroger and purchase a Green Dot card, pre-load the requested amount and was provided a mailing address.

In this case the victim acted promptly and correctly by contacting the Sheriff’s Office to verify. This victim’s action not only prevented them from losing money but gave our investigators a good lead in locating the con artist.

These con artists may seem credible because they use the names of current staff which is provided on our web page.

The Clayton County Sheriff’s Office does not contact anyone by phone demanding money to purge warrants, stop warrant arrest, or for missing court/jury duty. If anyone contacts you representing the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office demanding money, obtain as much information from them as possible and immediately contact law enforcement.

What is a Green Dot card?

It is a prepaid MasterCard or Visa debit card. You can make a one-time pre-load or set it up for direct deposits. These cards have a legitimate purpose, but con artist like them due to ease of use and little to no trace of the money.

Crime Prevention Tips To Help You Avoid Falling Victim To This Scam:

•Be suspicious of callers who demand immediate payment for any reason.

•Remember that anyone who has the number on a Green Dot card has access to the funds on the card.

•Never give out personal or financial information to anyone who emails or calls you unsolicited.

•Never wire money, provide debit or credit card numbers or Green Dot card numbers to someone you do not know.

•Governmental agencies will not contact you demanding immediate payment by Green Dot.

Please share this information with family and friends because this scam is being used all over the United States.