Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - The Doña Ana County Clerk's Office is warning residents about a scam involving fake bench warrants sent via photo messages and phone calls. Several residents have reported receiving a photo of what appears to be a bench warrant demanding payment for an alleged legal violation. The scam claims immediate payment is necessary to avoid arrest.

In some cases, residents have also received phone calls from individuals impersonating law enforcement officers, threatening to come to their homes to carry out arrests if payment is not made.

The fraudulent photo includes a fake signature of Doña Ana County Clerk Amanda López Askin.

“This is a fraudulent attempt to deceive and intimidate residents into paying money under false pretenses,” said López Askin. “No one should respond to these messages or send money. If you receive a similar communication, please report it immediately.”

The scam often involves urgent threats, claiming the recipient is wanted for failing to appear in court. It demands payment to avoid legal consequences, creating a sense of urgency to pressure victims.

The Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office advises residents to remain cautious and to verify any claims through official channels. The office emphasized it does not issue warrants in this manner.

Residents who receive such messages or calls are encouraged to report them to the Sheriff’s Office at 575-525-1911 or to the district court at 575-523-8200.