Warrant Scam Calls in Palm Beach County: What You Need to Know
Imagine getting a call that sounds terrifyingly real:
A caller claims to be from the Sheriff’s Office. They tell you there’s a warrant for your arrest. The only way to avoid jail, they say, is to pay immediately, usually through Zelle, Venmo, a wire transfer, or even gift cards.
It’s a scam.
Unfortunately, this scheme has been making the rounds in Palm Beach County and across South Florida, targeting residents, professionals, and even those with legitimate concerns about outstanding legal matters. Knowing how to spot these scams can save you from losing thousands of dollars, and unnecessary panic.
How the Warrant Scam Works
Scammers typically pose as law enforcement officers, using official-sounding titles and spoofed phone numbers to trick their victims.
Here’s what they often say:
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“You missed jury duty, and there’s a warrant for your arrest.”
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“You failed to appear in court, and deputies are on the way.”
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“You can resolve the warrant by paying bond money right now over the phone.”
And here’s what they demand:
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Gift cards (Amazon, Apple, etc.)
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Zelle or Venmo transfers
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Wire transfers
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Cash apps
This tactic preys on fear, urgency, and the embarrassment of potentially facing arrest.
Local Warnings from Palm Beach County Law Enforcement and Officials
Several Palm Beach County agencies have issued official alerts about this scam:
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Palm Beach Gardens Police Department: In August 2024, the department released a public alert reminding residents that “legitimate law enforcement agencies will never demand payment over the phone to clear a warrant.” [Palm Beach Gardens Police Department, Civic Alert No. 1794].
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Lake Clarke Shores Police Department: Warned that scammers were impersonating PBSO deputies and demanding money to avoid arrest. The department emphasized that PBSO “will never request payment by phone to satisfy a warrant.” [Lake Clarke Shores Police Department Alert].
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Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller: Issued a fraud alert warning residents to beware of calls asking for payment to clear an arrest warrant. The Clerk’s Office makes clear: warrants cannot be resolved by paying money over the phone. [Palm Beach County Clerk Fraud Alert].
Together, these warnings confirm that this scam is not isolated — it is a persistent threat in our community.
How to Protect Yourself
Law enforcement will never:
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Demand payment by phone, email, or text.
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Accept gift cards, wire transfers, or Zelle as payment for a warrant.
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Threaten to send deputies to your home unless you pay immediately.
Red flags to watch for:
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Caller insists on secrecy (“Don’t tell anyone or you’ll be arrested”).
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Caller pressures you to act immediately.
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Caller uses generic titles like “Officer Smith” but won’t provide a verifiable badge number.
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Caller claims to be from a government agency but refuses to let you call back through an official number.
If you receive such a call:
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Hang up immediately.
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Do not send money.
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Verify directly with the agency. Call PBSO’s non-emergency line or check the Palm Beach County Clerk’s website for warrants.
What If You Actually Have a Warrant?
For some people, the call feels convincing because they really are worried about an open case or missed court date. That’s where scammers gain leverage.
But here’s the truth:
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If you do have a warrant, the only proper way to address it is through the court system.
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An experienced Palm Beach County criminal defense attorney can arrange for you to self-surrender, minimize your time in custody, and immediately begin fighting the underlying case.
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By working with a lawyer, you protect your reputation, your freedom, and your finances.
Paying a scammer not only fails to resolve your warrant — it also makes you a victim of fraud.
Why This Matters for Professionals and High-Level Executives
As a professional, executive, or licensed individual in Palm Beach County, your reputation is everything. Scammers know this — and they exploit the fear of embarrassment or arrest.
If you get one of these calls:
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Don’t panic.
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Don’t pay.
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Call an attorney who understands how to discreetly handle warrant issues in Florida courts.
Our firm has over 20 years of experience defending clients in Palm Beach County against criminal charges, DUI cases, and related matters. We know how to handle sensitive cases where your career, reputation, and freedom are on the line.
Final Thoughts
Warrant scams are on the rise, and even savvy professionals can fall victim when fear takes over. Remember: law enforcement will never call to demand money to clear a warrant.
If you’re contacted about a supposed warrant — or if you’re genuinely concerned you might have one — call our office before you act. We can quickly verify your status, protect your rights, and give you a clear plan of action.
Call to Action:
If you’ve received a warrant scam call, or if you believe you may have an outstanding warrant in Palm Beach County, call The Law Office of Matthew Konecky, P.A. today at 561-671-5995. Your consultation is confidential, and the sooner you act, the more options you have.
