19/06/2026
BCSO warns of phone scammers posing as Sheriff's deputy; mis-pronounces Blount
Maryville, Tennessee – It's been a while since we've had any complaints, but it seems the scammers are at it again in an attempt to steal your heard-earned money.
This time, it was a dead giveaway when the poser mis-pronounced the name of our beloved county.
Blount County Sheriff James Lee Berrong is warning citizens of these phone scams from an individual posing as a Sheriff's deputy. The Sheriff’s Office has received some complaints today from citizens about an individual posing as a deputy by the name of Lt. Jacob Thomas who CLEARLY mispronounced Blount County -- those of you who know, know!
These scam calls run the gamut, from ankle monitor scams, to scams involving loved ones who've been arrested and need bond money, to criminal posers stating you've missed jury duty or are wanted on an outstanding warrant.
Please know that deputies will NOT call an individual and tell them they are wanted on warrants, or that they missed jury duty, and they must pay money or they'll be arrested.
These criminal scammers will stop at nothing to get your money. PLEASE DO NOT FALL FOR THESE SCAMS!! If you ever receive a phone call from someone saying they work for a law enforcement agency and demanding money for ankle monitoring, outstanding warrants, missed jury duty, or anything similar, it is a scam. If you ever have any doubt about a call of this nature that you receive, please call the Sheriff’s Office directly to confirm it.
Sheriff’s deputies may call individuals about routine business, but you will NEVER be asked to provide payment by way of bank account information, credit card, gift cards, bitcoin, or any other method of payment by way of phone. These calls usually come from internet generated phone numbers, and sometimes spoofed numbers that make it look as if the call is coming from a legitimate organization. Never provide payment information over the phone to individuals or companies that you are not familiar with and that call to solicit and threaten you!
Please share this post and continue to warn your family and friends who may not be tuned into social media. We do not want to see anyone victimized by these criminals!
And remember, if someone calls you stating they are from the "BLOUNT" (long o and u) County Sheriff's Office, you know it's a scam! Hang up!!
