PRESCOTT VALLEY, Ariz. — Officials in Yavapai County are warning residents to be wary of scammers who may be trying to swindle money out of parents by faking a kidnapping.
A mother contacted the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office on April 10 after getting a troubling phone call from a man speaking Spanish and claiming to have kidnapped her 8-year-old daughter in Prescott Valley.
The man demanded money from the mother in exchange for her daughter's return. At one point during the call, the sound of a little girl's voice could be heard over the phone.
The sheriff's office was able to confirm the mother's daughter was safe and that no kidnapping had actually occurred. Investigators weren't able to trace the phone number from which the scammer had called.
YCSO reported getting another report in March from a resident in Black Canyon City who got a call from someone making similar threats and demanding money. Because the resident didn't have children, they quickly realized the threats were a scam.
"We urge everyone to be aware of these scams and use caution when receiving calls or messages about kidnapping and demands for money," YCSO wrote in a statement.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on our 12News YouTube playlist here.
More ways to get 12News
On your phone: Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.
On your streaming device: Download 12News+ to your streaming device
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
We are committed to serving all of the Valley's communities, because we live here, too.
12News is the Official Home of the Arizona Cardinals and the proud recipient of the 2018 Rocky Mountain Emmy Award for Overall Excellence.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.