New scam targets the families of prisoners

A new scam is circulating in Georgia targeting prison inmates' families, according to the State Board of Pardons and Paroles.

The board announced scammers are contacting offenders' families, requesting a fee in return for release.

“The Georgia Parole Board neither requires a fee nor will ever ask for money to consider an offender for paroleor set a release date,” said Terry Barnard, parole board chairman.

Appling scam: Man gives box containing $55,000 to scammers at Columbia County Dollar General

House fire: Augusta man, 62, dies in house fire

In most cases, scammers say the offender needs an electronic monitor, which needs to be paid for prior to the offender being released.

“These scammers can be very convincing and may identify themselves as parole officers or parole officials andthey may have information about the offender such as sentencing information, dates," said Chris Barnett, executive director of the Georgia parole board. "This is an attempt to add credibility to their scheme."

The parole board is currently working with other agencies to address the scam, according to the board.

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Georgia scammers target inmates' families