From The Middlesex Sheriff’s Office, Nov. 11, 2017: Residents are warned of a telephone scam in which perpetrators pose as Middlesex Sheriff’s Office employees.

Scammers allege that people they are calling missed jury duty and were subject to arrest unless they immediately paid a fine using gift cards.

“Under no circumstances will our deputies ever threaten arrest over the phone or demand individuals pay a fine or debt using prepaid debit or gift cards,” Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian said.

Anyone who may have received such a call is encouraged to report it to their local police department and the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office Digital Forensics Unit at (978) 932-3292. People with questions about jury duty can call the Office of Jury Commissioner at 1 (800) 843-5879.