The public is warned of a scam involving a caller claiming to be a Lancaster County Deputy Sheriff and demanding payments.

Local officials are aware of numerous cases and believe others could be targeted. Cases where $10,000 and $5,000 have been stolen were reported.

The scammer states the victim missed court with Judge Miller and must post bail or pay a fine to stay out of jail.

The Lancaster County Sheriff's Office will never call demanding payment over phone for warrants or missed court dates and never asks for money over the phone.

The scam calls are coming from the Sheriff's Office's phone number of 717-299-8200, which has been duplicated. If you hang up and call the number back, you will reach the Sheriff's Office.

The incidents are being investigated.

If you received or receive such a call, contact the Sheriff's Office at the above number or your local police department. Do NOT provide information or payment.