State treasurer warns of phone scam

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) – Kentucky Treasurer Todd Hollenbach is warning people about a new phone scam. Someone is reportedly calling people and identifying themselves as a “pre-trial intervention” organization leaving behind a vague and mysterious message. The person is told that there’s a pending case that needs their immediate attention and asks to speak to them or their attorney immediately. The caller gives a Washington state phone number and warns that if they don’t hear from the person or their attorney, that they’ll document that they’ve waived their right to counsel and will submit their case. The message ends with this advice from the caller, “Govern yourself accordingly.”

Treasurer Hollenbach says this is an obvious scam to get someone’s personal information. Legal actions or notice of legal actions are normally handled by mail, not over the phone. If you do receive one of these bogus calls, you can report it to the Consumer Protection Division in the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office at 1-888-432-9257. For more information online about scam calls, visit www.ag.ky.gov.