Media Release

For Immediate Release:  December 17, 2025

Contact: David Fath, Communications Director

(704) 985-4935

Email: dfath@albemarlenc.gov 

APD Warns of Phone Scam Circulating

ALBEMARLE, NC – The Albemarle Police Department is warning residents about a phone scam circulating.

Scammers are impersonating members of our local sheriff’s office and police agencies, claiming that the person who receives a call has missed jury duty, has outstanding warrants, or is under investigation.

Callers are told they must make immediate payment to “avoid arrest.” The caller is often asked to pay large sums of money via gift cards, Venmo, Cash App, or Bitcoin, with amounts reaching up to $30,000.

The scam is sophisticated: caller IDs may display legitimate law enforcement numbers. Callers may receive a text message with fake documents which claim to be from the court system or Department of Treasury.

Residents are asked to please remember:

• Law enforcement will never call to demand money.
• Law enforcement will never request payment via gift cards, mobile apps, or cryptocurrency.
• If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and report it.

Report the Scam Call to the Following:

• The Albemarle Police Department at (704) 984-9500 or the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office at (704) 986-3714.
• You may also report it to the Federal Trade Commission at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/