The elderly should be on alert for a scam involving telephone calls claiming they are in trouble for not reporting for jury duty and told to make a payment with a credit card over the phone.
Dwight “Ike” Hodson, Highland County clerk of courts, told Hillsboro Rotarians on Tuesday that the “ghost” caller identification showing up with the phone calls falsely shows his office name and number.
Hodson said those receiving the calls are told they failed to report for jury duty, and the caller demands a fine be paid with a credit card over the phone, threatening them with arrest if they don’t comply.
Hodson said legitimate notices about jury duty are never made by telephone, only by mail. He urged anyone receiving such calls to report them to law enforcement.
Hodson also told Rotarians that his office handles the processing of passport applications, and can also help with passport renewals. He said that while those seeking a passport can download a form from the internet, forms cannot be processed online.
Hodson said passports typically take 4-6 weeks to process, but an additional fee can expedite them in 2-3 weeks. Questions can be addressed by calling 937-393-9957.
Hodson was appointed clerk of courts in 2011 and elected in 2012. He is running unopposed for re-election this November.
Hodson, who served 22 years as county recorder, said, “I love being clerk,” which he said is more “fast-paced” than the recorder’s office.
Reach Gary Abernathy at 937-393-3456 or on Twitter @abernathygary.
