Newark, N.J. – Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Essex County Sheriff Amir Jones are urging the public to remain vigilant following reports of a bail scam targeting the families recently arrested individuals.
Scammers are posing as law enforcement officers, attorneys, or court personnel and demanding bail payments through mobile payment apps such as Apple Pay and Zelle. One victim reported sending over $11,000 via Zelle.
“We want to remind the public that with the advent of criminal justice reform in New Jersey, bail is a thing of the past in virtually all instances. While bail may be required in certain cases, no legitimate request for payment will ever be made through Apple Pay, Zelle, or any other digital platform. Anyone who receives a call demanding bail payments, should not send money–it is a scam”, Prosecutor Stephens said.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by this scam is asked to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432. All calls will be kept confidential.
