The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office is alerting residents to a new and increasingly sophisticated phone scam targeting members of the community.

According to reports received this morning, potential victims have received calls from an individual claiming to be “Deputy Sheriff Clark.” The caller tells the recipient that a 9th Judicial District Judge has personally selected them—along with others—to serve as a “credible community member” to review and provide feedback on a 250-page document related to a class action civil case.

The scammer insists that the recipient’s opinion will assist the judge in making a decision and pressures them to provide personal information, warning that failure to do so could result in a civil violation and possible arrest.

Authorities emphasize that this is a scam. Law enforcement and court officials will never contact citizens by phone to request personal information, nor will they threaten arrest for failing to participate.

“Scammers are becoming more creative in their attempts to deceive the public,” the Sheriff’s Office said. “They often target well-intentioned individuals who simply want to help law enforcement or the courts. We urge everyone to stay vigilant and never share personal or financial information over the phone.”

Similar scams may use other tactics, such as claiming an account has been hacked or requesting verification details. Anyone receiving a suspicious call should hang up immediately and report it to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Fortunately, in the most recent incidents, citizens recognized the scam and ended the conversation before sharing any information.