The Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warning concerning a new scam that attempts to secure the release of inmates in exchange for payment.
The Penobscot County Jail would like to inform the public about a recently identified scam that involves attempts to secure the release of inmates in exchange for payment. These scams bear resemblance to previous fraudulent activities where individuals impersonate local law enforcement to solicit payment for fines or warrants. It’s important to remember that no jail official will ever call and request money for the release of an inmate into a program. Please note that there are no legitimate programs in place that allow for the release of inmates in return for cash. Anytime you receive a call or message requesting payment for fines, fees, bail, or release—especially through methods like Venmo, PayPal, or gift cards—these are likely scams. To protect yourself from falling victim to such schemes, we encourage you to secure your communication channels and reach out to local law enforcement if you suspect a scam before taking any action. Staying informed and vigilant is key to ensuring your safety and security.