MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Sheriff Richard Schmidt is alerting the public to an increase in phone scams.

The Sheriff's Office took several reports from citizens who received phone calls or emails using a deputy sheriff's name and threatening arrest for failure to pay fines with missing jury duty.

The scammers are also providing a number to call where they have copied a real county voicemail recording, but it is connected to the scammer’s phone lines.

In addition to preying on the elderly, the scammers are now focusing on medical professionals who may pay rather than take time to question the purported fines.

“The Sheriff’s Office DOES NOT call or email citizens threatening arrest for failure to pay fines. If you receive a similar call, hang up. If you fall victim to the scam and suffer monetary losses, report the call by email to Sheriff@milwaukeecountywi.gov, or by phone to 414-278-4705," said Sheriff Schmidt.

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