CENTREVILLE – A new scam has been reported in St. Joseph County.

Sheriff Mark Lillywhite says his department has become aware of a scam where scammers create a fake name and phone number, which makes it appear they are calling from a local police department, Sheriff's department or other law enforcement agency.

The scammer tells their intended victim there is a warrant out for their arrest, but if they pay a fine they can avoid criminal charges. Lillywhite says law enforcement officials do not conduct investigations this way. He says they will never call someone and ask for payment over the phone, or tell someone there is a warrant out for their arrest.

Lillywhite would like to remind citizens to never give out any personal information over the telephone, especially if you are not sure who they are. If you ever get a call like this, please hang up and contact your local law enforcement agency.