Authorities urge public to ignore messages claiming to be Sheriff Mark Wood

By Journal Staff

The Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam involving someone impersonating Sheriff Mark Wood through text messages.

According to a statement posted on the sheriff’s official Facebook page, an individual is reportedly using a prepaid phone to contact residents while posing as Wood. The messages claim the sender has lost their phone and ask recipients to save a new number.

Authorities said the messages are fraudulent and advised residents not to respond or share personal information.

The Sheriff’s Office said it is investigating the incident.

Residents are encouraged to share the warning, particularly with older adults who are often targeted in scams.

What to know

• Law enforcement will not request information through unsolicited text messages
• Messages asking recipients to save a “new number” should be treated as suspicious
• Do not respond or provide personal information
• Report suspicious activity to local law enforcement

An impersonation scam is circulating in the parish, and residents are urged to remain cautious, avoid engaging with suspicious messages and help raise awareness.

Sources: Sheriff Mark Wood official Facebook page