A scammer in Ohio, who attempted to impersonate law enforcement and defraud an individual, inadvertently targeted and was recorded by a police captain. The caller, identifying himself as 'Captain Michael' from the Medina County Sheriff's Department warrant division, contacted Captain Jacob Morris of the Lorain Police Department.
The scammer informed Morris that he had missed jury duty and faced arrest unless he immediately paid $2,400. Morris, a 16-year veteran of the police force, recognized the tactics as a common scam and decided to prolong the conversation.
Morris secretly recorded the nearly 20-minute call on his personal cellphone. He stated his intention was to provide the public with a clear example of the methods scammers employ to pressure victims into sending money. During the recording, the scammer explained that law enforcement no longer accepted traditional payment methods due to past fraud, demanding payment via debit card, credit card, check, or money order.
The scammer's pitch, which included demands for immediate payment and threats of arrest, is characteristic of jury duty impersonation scams that have become prevalent nationwide. \n
After allowing the scammer to continue, Morris revealed his identity and informed the caller that he had been recording the entire conversation. He expressed hope that the recording would help prevent the scammer from targeting others. Morris concluded the call by stating, "Horrible scam, but better than most. I'm a police officer, you're full of s**t."
Morris noted that while his law enforcement experience allowed him to quickly identify the scam, he understood how others could be deceived. He cautioned the public about common scammer tactics, including creating a sense of urgency, threatening legal consequences, and demanding immediate payment before victims can verify the information.
The Lorain Police Department has since released the recording to educate residents about these types of scams and help them avoid becoming victims. The incident occurred on June 27, 2026.