10/26/2026
SCAM WARNING: The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about scammers who spoof SCSO Victim Advocate phone numbers to impersonate agency staff and trick people into sending money.
What you need to know:
• Callers claim to represent the Sheriff’s Office (sometimes inventing a relative’s arrest or a fake treatment program) and request payment via Zelle, gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers.
• One recent case involved a $1,350 payment.
• Legitimate law enforcement will never demand payment that way. If you get a suspicious call, hang up and verify independently by calling the main line at 941-861-5800.
• Share the warning with family and friends.
Why it matters locally: These calls are happening here. If it sounds off, hang up and call the main number yourself.
