Scammers posing as jury duty officials are demanding up to $7,000 via gift cards or Bitcoin, but no real agency calls to threaten arrest or collect fees.

Sheriff’s offices in Ward, Burleigh, Roanoke, and Robeson Counties are warning residents about a surge in phone scams impersonating jury duty officials. Scammers claim recipients missed jury duty and face arrest warrants, demanding payments up to $7,000 via gift cards, Bitcoin ATMs, or Walmart transfers. Authorities stress that no legitimate agency calls to demand money, accepts gift cards, or threatens arrest over the phone. Real jury matters are handled through official court channels. Residents are advised to hang up, not call back, and verify status directly with their county’s clerk of court or local sheriff’s office.