The Punta Gorda Police Department is notifying the public of phone scam.
Multiple citizens have received calls by individuals claiming to be with the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office Civil Division, PGPD said in a statement.
These callers are claiming that the victim failed to respond to a "gand jury subpoena" and that a warrant has been issued for their arrest.
The callers then claim that in lieu of being arrested the victims can pay money over the phone using "cash cards" that can be purchased at local retail stores, PGPD said in a statement.
The callers are also providing call back numbers and are answering those phones as the "Charlotte County Sheriff's Office Civil Division."
PGPD is informing the public that this is a scam and reminding everyone that official agencies DO NOT conduct business like this over the phone.
If you've received a call and think it may be suspicious, contact your local authorities.
