Police Warn Of Scammers Impersonating Evanston Officers

EVANSTON, IL — The Evanston Police Department issued a warning about a recent scam involving scammers pretending to be officers to solicit money from the public.

On Feb. 4, two victims called the Chicago Police Department to report they were contacted by someone who identified themselves as "Sergeant Endre" from the Evanston Police Department. Sergeant Endre told the victims they had active arrest warrants and would be taken into custody unless they made a payment in cryptocurrency.

EPD clarified that it will never contact residents to demand payment in any form, including cryptocurrency, to avoid arrest or resolve warrants.

"Community members who are contacted by someone claiming to be law enforcement and demanding payment, should not provide any personal or financial account information. Hang up immediately and contact your local police department," EPD said in a statement.

Anyone who may have additional information about incidents like this one, or believes they may have been targeted by this scam, is encouraged to contact the Evanston Police Department at 847-866-5000 or submit a tip by texting CRIMES. (275637) and starting the message with EPDTIP.