Phone scam impersonating law enforcement – Garfield County, Colorado
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Woman holding mobile phone with incoming call from an unknown caller.

Phone scam impersonating law enforcement

Residents reported calls from people claiming to be a GCSO sergeant

GCSO PRESS RELEASE
April 9, 2026

The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office is alerting the public to an increase in fraudulent phone calls involving individuals impersonating members of our agency. Multiple residents have reported receiving calls from individuals claiming to be a sergeant with the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office or GarCo Sheriff, stating that the recipient must pay or “settle” a civil debt on behalf of the federal government.

These calls are fraudulent.

We want to make it clear:

  • Deputies do not handle or settle any type of debt — federal, civil, or otherwise
  • Deputies do not collect money from the public
  • Deputies will never call individuals to demand payment

Any call requesting payment while claiming to be from law enforcement should be considered a scam. Scammers may use the names of real deputies or employees and may attempt to create a sense of urgency to pressure victims into making payments, often through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.

Residents are encouraged to:

  • Hang up immediately if they receive such a call
  • Never provide personal, financial, or identifying information
  • Contact the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office directly using a verified phone number
  • Report the incident to local law enforcement

Public awareness is critical in preventing fraud. Community members are encouraged to share this information. For more information or to report a scam, please contact Garfield County Emergency Communications Authority [non-emergency number] at 970-625-8095 or visit the Federal Trade Commission to learn more.