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Officials warn of nationwide jury duty scam

Posted at 2:17 PM, Nov 28, 2017
and last updated 2017-11-28 18:22:09-05

INDIANAPOLIS -- The U.S. Attorney's office is warning Hoosiers of a new scam that is looking to get your hard-earned money.

Chief U.S. District Judge Jane E. Magnus-Stinson said a person will call, posing as a federal marshal or a government official, saying you're about to be arrested for not appearing for jury duty. 

They then said you can avoid arrest by paying a fine, which is how they'll get your money.

The scammers use real names, the location of the courthouse and the case and badge numbers involved. But the courts say they would never ask you to do this.

“Those who take advantage of trusting citizens must know that there is zero tolerance for this type of behavior,” U.S. Attorney Josh Minkler said. “Fraudsters and other scammers will face the full force of federal law enforcement for such activity.”

If you do miss jury duty, you'll be contacted by mail, and asked to go before a judge. A fine will not be imposed.

The courts would also never ask for a card number, wire transfer or bank account numbers. If you get a call like this, contact the U.S. Marshals Office.

Watch the full press conference below.

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