The Loudon County Sheriff’s Office has received multiple calls regarding a phone scam currently targeting our community.

Several citizens have reported receiving calls from someone identifying himself as “Lt. Johnson.” The caller claims he is over a special jail program related to overcrowding. He tells families that because magistrates do not work on holidays, their loved one will not be able to bond out until Friday. He then claims he can secure an early release through this so-called program, requiring an ankle monitor and other conditions, if money is paid immediately.

This is a scam!

Please be aware of the following important facts:

• The Loudon County Sheriff’s Office will not call anyone requesting money.

• LCSO does not use third parties to solicit money on our behalf.

• There is no program that allows release from jail in exchange for payment over the phone.

• Scammers may provide information that sounds official, but the details they give may be inaccurate, inconsistent, or differ from verified information.

If you receive a call like this, do not provide any personal or financial information. Hang up immediately.

If you believe you have been a victim of this, or any scam, please contact Loudon County E-911 Dispatch at 865-458-9081 to speak with a deputy. If you have questions about an arrest made within Loudon County, please call the Loudon County Detention Facility at 865-986-6612.

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