Scammer masquerades as McHenry County sheriff's deputy

The McHenry County sheriff's department warned Friday of a scam where a currently employed sheriff deputy's name is used by a caller trying to elicit money from people to avoid having an arrest warrant served on them.

The office received four calls Friday morning alone from people who were intended victims of the scam. The office also has received a call from one person who was victimized, purchasing gift cards and providing numbers to the caller to avoid going to jail.

Residents can call the McHenry County sheriff's office at (815) 338-2144 to verify that there is not a warrant for their arrest if there is ever doubt. The office does not take bond over the phone, ever. Also, bond is never taken in a form of a gift card.

"We encourage residents to call and report if they become victim or this or any other scam - never be embarrassed," the office said in a news release.