Sheriff’s offices across the Northern Neck are warning residents about scams involving fake court notices and fraudulent demands for payment.

Richmond parking notices Sheriff’s offices report that scammers are sending text messages claiming recipients owe money for parking violations in Richmond. The messages often include what appears to be an official document bearing a state seal and labeled as a “notice of hearing.”

The documents are designed to look legitimate, featuring a case number, a QR code supposedly for payment, and a signature from someone identified as “John Smith,” described as a clerk of court. The actual clerk of the Richmond General District Court is Cecelia V. Garner.

Local sheriff’s offices emphasized that courts and law enforcement agencies do not notify individuals of court dates or violations through text messages, emails, or voicemails.

The Richmond Police Department and the Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office issued a statement saying they are aware of the scam and are also urging the public not to engage.

“These messages are not legitimate,” Richmond authorities said, warning recipients not to respond, click on links, scan QR codes, or provide any personal or payment information.

Anyone unsure about potential violations is encouraged to contact the court clerk’s office directly.

Jury duty scam

Meanwhile, the King George County Sheriff’s Office is alerting residents to a separate scam involving fraudulent claims of missed jury duty.

In these cases, scammers pose as law enforcement officers and tell victims they must pay fines for failing to appear for jury service. Victims are often instructed to go to a bank, send money through apps such as Cash App or Venmo, or purchase gift cards to avoid arrest.

Scammers may spoof local phone numbers to appear credible and may threaten to send deputies to a victim’s home if payment is not made.

Authorities advise that if something feels suspicious, individuals should hang up or ignore the message and contact local police using the non emergency number.