Residents in Covington County are among those who have been targeted by jury duty scam. With jury week beginning next week, Circuit Clerk Amy Jones reminds residents that they will be notified by mail if they are selected for jury duty, and that they are never to pay any fine by purchasing a money card.

Scammers pretend to be law enforcement, call the victim, and threaten him with arrest for missing jury duty, but then offer to handle the matter for money, over the telephone.

Jones said some local residents have fallen victim to the scam, which targets elderly residents.

“No one is going to solicit funds from this office,” Jones said. “You must come in and pay money for what is owed. If anyone approaches you otherwise, call the sheriff’s department.”

Those who are called to jury duty and are unable to serve, should call the circuit clerk’s office.

“They can be excused with good reason, or their service might be deferred,” she said