LEE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE WARNS OF “VIRTUAL KIDNAPPINGS”

  

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public to be aware of a new trend called, “virtual kidnappings.” The warning comes after the Sheriff’s Office recently investigating a report from a local resident that believed to have a family member kidnapped in Mexico.

Sheriff Garrett Durrenberger told the Giddings Times that he received a phone call from a citizen saying that their relative was being held against their will, and a ransom was demanded.

The citizen wired money to Mexico. Durrenberger reached out to state and federal agency partners. The resident learned from other family members that the victim had been released from custody, and returned with no harm.

While this one ended up being legitimate, federal authorities also warn of “virtual kidnappings.” A suspect will call, say a family member has been kidnapped, and demand immediate payment.

Durrenberger warned that if you receive call of this nature, to reach out the family member directly, or through family and friends, to determine if they are safe. Then, make timely reports to local law enforcement. Even though they don’t have any jurisdiction in other countries, Durrenberger assures residents that they will investigate, offer any local assistance, and forward it to the FBI.

So far, they have received two kidnapping reports, one legit and one virtual.

The names and dates are not being released to protect the safety of those involved.