The Miller County Sheriff's Office is warning residents of a scam in which a person identifies himself as Deputy Ellis with the Miller County Sheriff's Office.
According to sheriff's department reports, many received calls over the weekend and were told they needed to pay money to avoid a warrant. They were instructed to call a phone number, which resulted in a recorded message claiming to be with the sheriff's office and provided actual extensions for specialized units.
The phone number is fake, according to investigators, and was listed as a Salem, Missouri, number. It was most likely generated using an app that makes you think you're receiving a local call, and they are usually untraceable. Suspects are usually in other states or countries.
Authorities said there is no Deputy Ellis in the Miller County Sheriff's Department. They also reminded residents that deputies will not call and request money or advise citizens about a warrant.
Those receiving such calls are encouraged to contact local authorities or Attorney General Eric Schmitt's office to report any scams via the consumer protection division hotline at 1-800-392-8222.