New Scam Advisory Warning: Beware of Jury Duty Scam

BUTTE, MT - It seems like scammers never take a break, and now they’ve found yet another way to try and take money from hard-working Montanans.

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According to officials, a new phone scam is targeting residents across the state, with callers falsely identifying themselves as law enforcement officers and demanding thousands of dollars to settle made-up charges.

New Scam Alert in Montana

A recent alert warns of phone calls coming from someone claiming to be a deputy or sergeant with the local sheriff’s office.

This individual tells victims that they’ve missed jury duty or that there’s a warrant out for their arrest. The impersonator then demands a payment of $9,000 to “clear” the alleged charges.

The scammer, who has reportedly gone by names like “Officer Rinheart” or “Sergeant Rinheart,” requests payment via various digital methods and even offers a payment plan: half now, half later.

One concerned resident reported that someone posing as “Sgt. Davenport” from a Montana police department has also been making similar calls, including leaving messages at workplaces.

The scammer is using a number traced to 413-769-0900. This activity has since been reported to local authorities.

What Montanans Should Know

The sheriff’s office emphasizes that no deputy or employee by these names exists, and they do not call residents to request payments over the phone. If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be law enforcement—especially if they’re demanding money—hang up immediately.

This scam can target anyone, anywhere in the state. Be cautious when receiving calls from unfamiliar numbers, and never give out personal or financial information over the phone.