Domestic Violence Survivors in Jefferson County Targeted by Scammers
Domestic violence survivors in Jefferson County, Colorado, are being targeted by scammers, often within hours of a loved one's arrest. These scammers are exploiting the vulnerability of survivors, sometimes leading to significant financial losses. The scam typically involves calls or voicemails impersonating law enforcement, such as a 'Sergeant Robert Lee with the Jefferson County Jail,' informing the survivor about a detainee and requesting a call back. When survivors return these calls, they are pressured to pay for 'pre-trial bail,' often with a strict time limit. Sabrina Martinez, the domestic violence coordinator for the victim witness unit at the First Judicial District Attorney's Office, suggests that scammers are likely using public records of arrests and court hearings, combined with social media searches, to identify and target victims. Candace Cooledge, executive director of the Porchlight Family Justice Center, emphasizes the horrific nature of victimizing survivors during their most vulnerable...