LA VERGNE, TN - Surprise! Nobody could have seen this coming (said no one ever): the LaVergne Police Department has decided to take a bold step and warn residents about a scam that is somehow still making the rounds. Apparently, some crafty individuals are impersonating members of the LaVergne Police Department and calling unsuspecting citizens to demand money in exchange for dropping warrants related to missing jury duty. Who knew?

If you happen to receive one of these delightful calls, don’t hesitate—simply hang up and carry on with your day like a superstar.

In past news stories, WGNS has reported similar scams from nearly every local law enforcement agency in Rutherford County and surrounding communities over the past 12 months. Each article highlights grand impersonators threatening arrest for missing jury duty and, for some reason, demanding payment in gift cards. This certainly cannot be a more official way for "law enforcement" to ask for payment—to be made via a gift card! NOT!

In a particularly riveting scenario reported last year, a Rutherford County woman experienced the thrill of receiving a call from someone pretending to be a sheriff's deputy. The scammer informed her that she would be arrested for failing jury duty and instructed her to procure gift cards. Thankfully, our heroine had the miraculous ability to recognize the absurdity of the situation! Instead of rushing off to the store, she wisely contacted her father for advice.

So, folks, it seems the message is clear—if you find your phone buzzing with the sweet sound of “you owe us money,” simply hang up, laugh it off, and remind yourself that common sense reigns supreme. Remember, officials will never request payment over the phone. If any doubt creeps in, just hang up and verify with the real authorities. Happy scam avoiding!

• Read Past Scams HERE.