DEKALB COUNTY, GA— The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public about individuals fraudulently claiming to be Chief Deputy Temetris Atkins and other

Sheriff’s Office employees.

Using the names of real officials to appear legitimate, these impersonators are contacting members of the public in an apparent attempt to solicit money, personal information, and other sensitive details.

Reports have surfaced throughout the metro area concerning victims who were duped by scammers demanding bond payment for loved ones who may be incarcerated. Others are being duped into paying fines for traffic  violations and other made-up fees by scammers using spoofing techniques that appear to be from a sheriff’s office.

“The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office will never request payment, gift cards, wire transfers, or sensitive personal information by phone, text message, email, or social media,” officials stated in a news release. 

Residents are urged to:

• Not provide personal or financial information to unsolicited callers.
• Hang up immediately if they receive a suspicious call.
• Report suspected impersonation attempts to local law enforcement.
• Verify official communications by contacting the agency directly through its publicly listed phone number.

“The Sheriff’s Office takes this matter seriously and is actively investigating. Protecting the community from fraud and deception remains a top priority,” officials said.