The Wheaton Police Department has received numerous reports from area residents and businesses that were called by an individual claiming to be associated with the Wheaton Police Department. In this scam, the suspect, who is using the name of a retired police officer, claims that the resident failed to appear in court as a witness, and he has warrants for their arrest. He instructs them to send money through Zelle or Venmo to an address in Washington D.C. to resolve the arrest charges.
The Wheaton Police Department does not contact individuals by phone to request payment for an arrest, nor would the Police Department instruct individuals to wire or send money. Residents can always contact the Wheaton Police Department at 630-260-2161 to confirm the legitimacy of a caller claiming to be from the Police Department.
If you are contacted by this individual or have information related to this scam, please contact Sgt. Potter at 630-260-2059.