Scammers posing as police officers and sheriff's deputies are calling Mill Valley residents and demanding money, prompting the Mill Valley Police Department to issue a public warning on Thursday, July 16.

The department said it has received "numerous reports" from community members about the fraudulent calls. Callers claim to be law enforcement and pressure victims into handing over cash or gift cards.

The scam is not unique to Mill Valley. Government impersonation fraud surged 87% nationwide in 2025, according to FBI data cited by San Francisco officials. Closer to home, the City of Larkspur issued warnings in May and June about fake payment requests impersonating city officials.

How the scam works

Callers identify themselves as police officers or Marin County Sheriff's deputies, then demand immediate payment. They may threaten arrest or claim the victim owes fines. The scammers ask for gift cards, wire transfers, or other hard-to-trace payments.

What police will never do

The Mill Valley Police Department stressed that legitimate law enforcement will never call residents to demand payment, collect fines, or request gift cards, wire transfers, or any other form of payment.

That distinction is the fastest way to spot the fraud. Real officers don't ask for money over the phone.

What to do if you get a suspicious call

The department's guidance is straightforward: hang up. Do not provide money or personal information. Then call the Mill Valley Police Department directly at 415-389-4100 to verify whether the contact was legitimate.

Police also encouraged residents to check in with family members, friends, and neighbors who may be more vulnerable. Adults age 60 and older reported more than $7.7 billion in fraud losses nationally last year, a roughly 60% increase from the prior year, according to FBI data.

Staying connected

Residents can sign up for real-time alerts from the Mill Valley Police Department by texting 94941 to 888-777. The Nixle system delivers notifications about road closures, police activity, and general public safety information.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted by this scam can contact the Mill Valley Police Department at 415-389-4100.