BEDFORD COUNTY, Tenn. — Local officials in Bedford County are warning residents about two separate phone scams reported in recent weeks, both involving callers impersonating law enforcement or county agencies in an effort to collect money. Officials caution that these scams are not isolated incidents, noting that similar reports have come in from Rutherford County and surrounding areas.

In one scam reported less than two weeks ago, Bedford County Animal Control said scammers are targeting residents by falsely claiming a family pet has been injured and is being treated at the animal control shelter. Victims receive phone calls that appear to come from Bedford County Animal Control or the Bedford County Sheriff's Office, asking for immediate payment for emergency veterinary care.

Officials say the scammers are using “spoofing” technology to manipulate caller ID information, making the calls appear legitimate. Authorities stress that this is a scam and that Bedford County Animal Control will never request payment over the phone for veterinary services.

Residents who receive such calls are encouraged to independently verify the information by contacting Bedford County Animal Control directly at 931-685-1130 or the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number at 931-684-3232. In the event of a true emergency, residents should call 9-1-1. Any suspected scam calls should be reported to local authorities.

In a separate warning issued on December 31, 2025, the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office alerted the public to another ongoing phone scam involving callers posing as deputies. In these cases, victims are told they have outstanding warrants or have failed to report for jury duty. The callers then demand payment to resolve the issue and claim the victim will be arrested if they come to the sheriff’s office in person.

Officials emphasized that no member of the sheriff’s office will ever call requesting payment or threaten arrest over the phone. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and to hang up immediately if they receive such a call.

Authorities say public awareness is one of the most effective tools in preventing scams and encourage residents to share this information with friends, family members, and especially elderly relatives who may be more frequently targeted.