Sumter police warn residents of scam callers posing as officer

After receiving reports of a scam caller posing as a police officer, Sumter Police Department is advising residents to stay vigilant.

Reports of a scam caller started on Tuesday. The person used the name of an actual Sumter police officer and claimed that arrest warrants have been issued for the person receiving the call, according to Tonyia McGirt, public information officer with the police department. Often in calls like this, the scammer then requests money to settle the supposed warrants, McGirt added.

“Please be aware that this is a common scam and advise others to not fall victim to this tactic,” McGirt urged. “The Sumter Police Department will not, nor will other law enforcement agencies ask for money related to warrants or any other police matter.”

The police department advised that anyone who receives a call like this should hang up and report it to law enforcement. Residents can call Sumter Police Department at (803) 436-2700.