Wilkes Sheriff’s Office Reports Multiple Scam Incidents, Including Impersonation Calls

Key Facts

Total reported losses: Over $68,000
Largest single loss: $22,000 (Apple Gift cards via WhatsApp)
Common scam method: Callers impersonating sheriff’s office demanding payment to avoid arrest
Payment methods used: Apple Pay, Apple Gift cards, wire transfer
Reporting advice: Report to bank and ic3.gov

Background

The Wilkes Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina has recently received numerous reports of scam incidents, according to a statement from the office. Among the reported scams are calls from individuals claiming to represent the sheriff’s office, who tell victims they must pay money to avoid being arrested.

The sheriff’s office has clarified that it never asks for money over the phone. This warning comes as multiple residents have come forward with losses ranging from $1,000 to $22,000.

Current Situation

On July 31, a 50-year-old woman from Moravian Falls reported receiving a call from a female claiming to be from the sheriff’s office, who said the victim had a warrant for her arrest for not appearing for a subpoena. The scammer demanded $10,000 in fees to avoid jail. The victim sent the money via Apple Pay and later filed a report with the sheriff’s office for her bank. Deputy Janet Castillo advised her to also report the incident to the federal Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.

A 27-year-old woman from North Wilkesboro reported a similar scam on July 30, losing $1,000 after a caller claiming to be a deputy said she had to pay a fine or be arrested. She paid via Apple Pay and later realized it was a scam.

Other incidents include a 57-year-old Ronda man who reported on July 28 that he lost $22,000 in Apple Gift cards sent to a scammer on WhatsApp since late November 2025. A 70-year-old North Wilkesboro man reported losing $17,500 on July 30, and a 65-year-old North Wilkesboro woman reported on July 28 that she sent $17,500 by wire to a person in Houston, Texas, for a 1971 Plymouth Barracuda but never received the car or a refund.

Reported Scam Incidents
Date Reported	Victim Age	Location	Loss Amount	Method
July 31	50	Moravian Falls	$10,000	Apple Pay
July 30	27	North Wilkesboro	$1,000	Apple Pay
July 28	57	Ronda	$22,000	Apple Gift Cards via WhatsApp
July 30	70	North Wilkesboro	$17,500	Not released
July 28	65	North Wilkesboro	$17,500	Wire transfer

All amounts as reported by the Wilkes Sheriff’s Office.

Impacts

The scams have resulted in significant financial losses for at least five individuals, totaling over $68,000. Victims are advised to report incidents to their banks and to the Internet Crime Complaint Center.

The sheriff’s office has reiterated that it never requests money over the phone, aiming to prevent further victimization. Residents are urged to be cautious of unsolicited calls demanding payment.

Future Outlook

Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.

If similar scams continue, more residents could fall victim, especially those unfamiliar with such tactics. The sheriff’s office may increase public awareness campaigns to educate the community.

Authorities may also collaborate with financial institutions and federal agencies to track and prevent fraudulent transactions. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.

Residents are encouraged to verify any suspicious calls by contacting the sheriff’s office directly. If they receive such calls, they should not send money and should report the incident immediately.

Source: journalpatriot.com

AMRIT EXPLAINER