Location: Porterville

Incident Date: 10/27/16

Incident Time: 0830 hours

Case Number: 16-13569

Victim: Misty Ellis

City: Porterville

Posted by: Media Relations

On 10-27-16, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by a subject who was reporting a possible fraud or scam via telephone.  The investigation revealed the victim was contacted via phone by a subject reporting to be a member of the Sheriff’s Office who was requesting bail for a relative of the victim. The victim was advised to obtain Apple iTunes gift cards in lieu of bail. 

The victim realized this was a scam and no money was exchanged.  

The Sheriff’s Office does not arrange for bail payments and does not call people requesting bail, nor does the Sheriff’s office request Apple iTunes gift cards in lieu of bail.  

If you should happen to receive one of these phone calls please contact the Sheriff’s Office immediately.  

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Tulare County Sheriff’s Department at (559) 733-6218 or send anonymous information by sending a text or email to (559) 725-4194 or TCSO@tipnow.com.