CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLERIGHTNOW) –  The Charlottesville Police Department is alerting the public to a rise in scam calls involving individuals impersonating law enforcement officers and demanding payment for alleged missed court appearances.

In a message posted Wednesday, police emphasized that the department will never call to request personal information or payment. The scammers have reportedly been targeting residents with claims of legal trouble in an attempt to collect money fraudulently.

“If you receive a suspicious call or believe you may be the target of a scam, please report it immediately to us at (434) 970-3280,” the department said in the alert.

Charlottesville Police are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any such encounters to help prevent further fraud.