Salina Woman Loses $7,000 in Bitcoin Scam Involving Caller Posing as Sheriff’s Deputy

Salina Police are investigating a scam in which a 46-year-old Salina woman lost approximately $7,000 after being contacted by a caller posing as a Saline County Sheriff’s Office deputy.

According to information discussed during a recent briefing, the caller identified himself as “Lieutenant Jason Richard” and told the woman she had missed a court date and that two warrants had been issued for her arrest. The caller instructed her to pay bond money totaling $7,000—$3,500 for each warrant—using Bitcoin ATMs.

Police said the caller remained on the phone with the victim while directing her actions. The woman first deposited $2,000 at a Bitcoin ATM on West Crawford Street. She was then instructed to make an additional $1,500 deposit, during which the machine jammed after she had already inserted $1,300. The caller then directed her to a second gas station on West Crawford to complete the remaining transactions.

After completing the deposits, the woman drove to the Saline County Sheriff’s Office with receipts to verify payment. While she was on the property, the caller became agitated and told her she would be arrested if she did not leave. After speaking with records personnel at the sheriff’s office, the woman learned she had been the victim of a scam.

The incident remains under investigation, and authorities are working to determine whether any funds can be recovered.

Police reiterated several safety reminders for the public:

•Law enforcement and government agencies will not request payment through Bitcoin, gift cards, prepaid cards, or other electronic-only payment methods.

•Legitimate officers will not keep individuals on the phone while directing them to make payments.

•Anyone receiving a call claiming missed court dates or active warrants should hang up and independently contact the agency using an official, publicly listed phone number to verify the claim.