Sheriff's office warns of fraud, scam complaints

FINDLAY — The Hancock County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating numerous cases of fraud and scam complaints. The suspects in these investigations are contacting victims via telephone, posing as family members, court employees, law enforcement officers and agents of several different federal agencies. While speaking with the victims, they sound legitimate and convincing. Many of the victims are requested to provide cash, gift cards or several different types of electronic transactions, sometimes in the form of cryptocurrency such as bitcoin. Cash transactions have reportedly been conducted at residences, parking lots and outside closed businesses. Not only does a theft occur, these types of transactions place victims in incredibly unsafe, potentially dangerous situations and should always be avoided. Although anyone could fall victim to the scams, the victims targets are typically elderly. The sheriff's office would like to remind everyone that no legitimate court employee, law enforcement officer or federal agent will request anyone to conduct financial business through the form of gift cards or cryptocurrency. Additionally, cash will not be accepted anywhere other than in-person at a legitimate, official building and only by a clearly identifiable official employee. If you have any additional information related to these scams or believe you or a loved one has fallen victim to one, contact your local law enforcement agency. For the Hancock County Sheriff's Office, call 419-422-2424.