2 Suffolk Residents Bilked Of Over $1K In Fake 'Chief Of Police' Scam: Cops

YAPHANK, NY — Suffolk police are warning the public about a scam in which callers claim they are from a law enforcement agency and threaten arrest if money is not sent.

Detectives have been made aware of at least two incidents during which a resident has been contacted by phone by a caller identifying themselves as the "Suffolk County Police Chief of Police" who says the resident either has an outstanding warrant or is in danger of having a warrant issued and payment of a fee was needed to avoid arrest, police said.

Suffolk does not have a Chief of Police, but a Chief of Department and a Police Commissioner.

Both victims sent funds in excess of $1000 via payment apps and money wiring services, according to police.

Both victims reported the scammers called from what appeared to be legitimate police department phone numbers, police said, adding that scammers often use spoofing apps and other technology to falsely represent the numbers they are calling from.

Police will never demand money in lieu of arrest or other consequence.

If you believe you have been the victim of this or any other scam, contact 911 or 631-852-COPS.