Clay County Sheriff's Office Warns of Ongoing Scam Calls Targeting Residents

HAYESVILLE, N.C. – The Clay County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to stay alert to telephone scams in which fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officers and demand payment for fake outstanding warrants.

Sheriff Mark Buchanan warned that legitimate law enforcement agencies never call citizens demanding immediate payment for warrants. He also stressed that no legitimate business will ever require someone to buy gift cards to settle a debt.

The sheriff’s office advises residents that if a caller claiming to be from law enforcement pressures them for quick payment, especially using gift cards, it is almost certainly a scam. Anyone who suspects they are being targeted should contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Office at (828) 389-6354 for immediate verification.

Sheriff Buchanan noted that elderly residents make up the majority of victims in these types of scams. He is encouraging family members and neighbors to share this warning with older loved ones and to remain vigilant.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Hang up immediately if a caller demands payment for a warrant or debt using gift cards.

• Never share personal or financial information with unsolicited callers.

• Always verify any law enforcement-related claim by calling the Sheriff’s Office directly using official contact information.

• Report suspected scams to local authorities.

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office continues to monitor these fraud attempts and asks the community to look out for one another, particularly more vulnerable residents.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted by this scam should contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Office at (828) 389-6354.