AG’s Office warning of new telephone scam

By News Staff

news@abc6.com

The Attorney General’s Office is warning Rhode Islanders of a new telephone scam.

Officials say a male caller is identifying himself as a Washington County Sheriff and telling people they have missed a Grand Jury hearing. The suspect then advises the victims to go to CVS and send money electronically, or else they’ll be arrested.

One victim has sent about $1,000 to the account provided by the suspect.

In each case, the suspect called from the same phone number and asked for victims by name, speaking in a convincing, authoritative tone.

If you or someone you know is a victim to similar calls, you are asked to contact Rhode Island State Police Lt. Kenneth Buonaiuto at 401-444-1046.

© WLNE-TV 2015