The Missouri State Highway Patrol is alerting residents to a telephone scam that has been reported across the state in recent weeks. Scammers posing as troopers are targeting individuals connected to motor vehicle accidents, attempting to extort money by using fear and intimidation.
“In the past month, several incidents have been reported statewide,” stated Sgt. Bradley R. German. “In each case, the suspect contacted someone associated with a person involved in a motor vehicle crash, claimed to be the investigating trooper, and then tried to solicit money from the victim.”
The scammers often make false claims about pending legal charges or court proceedings, using fear tactics to pressure the victim into handing over money. The calls can be frightening, with the scammer threatening legal consequences if payment isn’t made immediately.
Sgt. German emphasized that the Missouri State Highway Patrol will never contact individuals to solicit funds or demand payment for any reason. “Patrol employees do not process bonds, accept money to prevent charges, or request any form of payment from the public,” he stated.
He urged the public to be cautious and skeptical of anyone requesting money, particularly under urgent or intimidating circumstances. “If someone asks you to send money, assume it’s a scam,” German warned. “Take your time to verify the information by contacting the organization directly using phone numbers found on official websites, not the ones provided by the caller.”
He also advised residents not to provide any personal or identifying information over the phone. Scammers often use such details to exploit their targets further.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol encourages people to report any suspicious calls or attempted scams to local law enforcement, and to stay vigilant against these fraudulent schemes.