The Howard County Sheriff's Office received several reports about a new phone scam that is both aggressive and highly convincing.
In these cases, callers claim the person has outstanding warrants for failing to appear for jury duty. One victim was even told that deputies were on the way to arrest them, but that they could avoid jail by paying $5,000. The scammer did not specify how the payment should be made.
Another caller reported a man claiming to be “Jason Rivard with the Howard County Sheriff’s Department.” The caller sounded professional and provided a callback number: (765) 416-3644. When called, the number connects to a fake phone tree that mimics the sheriff's office real phone system and allows you to leave a voicemail. This setup is particularly concerning because it adds a false sense of legitimacy and may trick someone into sending money.
The Howard County Sheriff’s Office will never call and demand payment over the phone for jury duty, warrants, taxes, or donations. If someone contacts you making these claims, hang up and call the sheriff's office directly.
If you receive a scam call like this, report it by calling 765-457-1105. Sharing this information helps protect others.
Impaired driver taken to hospital then jail after crash
Gov. Braun announces plan for new, larger campground at McCormick’s Creek State Park
Governor Braun proclaims Indiana Rail Safety Week September 21-27
State unemployment rate remains below national average
Indiana weekly gas price update
Riverton Parke looks to continue momentum
Parke County Community Foundation awards funds for Ritz renovations
USDA announces 2026 and 2027 enrollment for key price and revenue safety net programs, first base acre increase in two decades
U.S. Marshals aid local law enforcement to find suspect
Gov. Braun continues to deliver on promise to keep local governments whole during gas tax holiday
Indiana state forests to offer open houses
Benefit ride for Alisha Reynolds on October 24
Former Roachdale Town Marshal sentenced to probation
Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance announces 2027 summer internship program
Read your FEMA letter carefully
Road closure to impact U.S. 36 in Parke and Putnam counties
