SCAM Alert: targeting families of recently released inmates

Pretrial Services of Monroe County, Florida
5503 College Road Suite 205 Key West, FL, 33040
305-294-7288

Beware of scams targeting families of recently released inmates where callers impersonate law enforcement to demand urgent payments (gift cards, Zelle, Bitcoin, Venmo) for fake ankle monitors or release fees; official agencies never demand immediate phone payments, so hang up, verify independently by calling the official agency’s number (not from the scammer’s info), and report the attempt. Common red flags include threats, urgency, requests for specific payment types (gift cards, crypto, apps), and claims of immediate release for a fee.

What to Do:

1. Hang Up Immediately: Do not engage with the caller. Also, if possible, write down the phone number the call or text came from. Also, write down any names that are used. You can use this info in Step 2.
2. Verify Independently: Call the Key West Jail Main Control 305-293-7311 or Plantation Key Jail 305-853-3266, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office 305-292-7000 or Key West Police Department 305-809-1111, or Pretrial Services Manager Scott Wiles 305-295-3903.
3. Contact Your Loved One: If possible, call the person they claim is in jail to confirm their status.
4. Report It: Report the attempt to your local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

January 12, 2026