The Becker County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents of a new scam making the rounds in the Detroit Lakes area. Scammers are impersonating a Sergeant from the Becker County Sheriff’s Office, claiming to be “Sergeant Ralph.” It’s important to note that no one by that name works at the Sheriff’s Office, and they will never call to discuss court schedules, warrants, or request money over the phone.
Residents are urged not to return calls to unknown numbers or give out personal information or money. This is a scam!
For accurate information, including checking for active warrants, you can visit the Becker County Sheriff’s Office website or call the Sheriff’s Office at 218-847-2661 or Becker County Court Administrator’s Office at 218-846-7305.
**Top 5 Scams Reported in the Detroit Lakes Area:**
- **Law Enforcement Impersonation:** Scammers pretending to be from the Sheriff’s Office, attempting to collect money for fake warrants.
- **IRS Scams:** Fraudsters claiming you owe back taxes and threatening arrest unless payment is made immediately.
- **Grandparent Scam:** Calls claiming a relative is in trouble and needs money urgently.
- **Online Marketplace Scams:** Fake buyers or sellers on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, trying to steal money or personal information.
- **Utility Scams:** Callers pretending to be utility companies, threatening to cut off service unless an immediate payment is made.
We aren’t done yet here is another one happening now:
Scam Alert: MPCA Warns Businesses of EPA Impersonation Scam
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is alerting businesses to a new scam involving fake letters that appear to be from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Scammers are sending out letters via email or U.S. mail, demanding thousands of dollars to settle a supposed environmental violation. These fraudulent letters are designed to look official, complete with the EPA’s logo, a case number, and federal citations, and they use an urgent tone to pressure recipients into paying.
The MPCA emphasizes that businesses would have prior contact with them before being notified of any violation or penalty. If you receive such a letter, do not respond or send any payments. Always verify the legitimacy of any correspondence by contacting the MPCA directly.