Hall said the intended victim reported the caller was pushy. “However, the victim remained calm and began asking very personal questions in which the caller couldn't answer or attempted to avoid.”

The money was never sent, Hall said, “As the victim was very quick-thinking and remembered a previous article sent by the sheriff's office in the past.”

In these situations, Hall said, people targeted by these scams should ask the callers questions. “They are all different and unique. Ask how are your mom and dad doing; where are you working now, anything that is unique whether it is knowing a favorite sports team; place of employment; boyfriend or girlfriend.”

In a statement, Hall said, “The sheriff’s office would like to continue to warn citizens to be very mindful when receiving strange phone calls from unknown people or other similar incidents. Incidents like this can easily drain thousands of dollars from innocent people.

“Please remember, if something feels unsettling or wrong, it usually is, and to always make reports to your local law enforcement agencies before agreeing to send any amount of money to anyone for any reason.”

Stabbing

In another matter Hall reported on Monday around 7:30 a.m., Deputy Steven Casey responded to a home on Williams Road in Hollister regarding the stabbing of a man.

While on scene, Casey learned Edward Lynch, 32, of Hollister, reportedly stabbed the victim after an argument between the victim and a third party.

Casey took Lynch was into custody and charged him with assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious bodily injury.

Lynch was placed in the Halifax County Detention Center under a $500 bond.

The victim was treated and released.