For Immediate Release

March 5, 2010

For more information contact:

Raymond L. Billotte

District Court Administrator

412-350-6939

ALERT:  IDENTITY THEFT/JURY DUTY SCAM

               Pittsburgh, PA  -  District Court Administrator Raymond L. Billotte cautions citizens of Allegheny County of an identity theft scam where perpetrators pose as court employees.  The scam may begin with a telephone call informing citizens that they have missed jury duty and an arrest warrant has been issued, or, the caller may inquire about the availability of a citizen to participate in jury duty.  The caller may then proceed to request confidential information such as date of birth, Social Security number, credit card and/or bank account information.

               Citizens are advised that officials of the 5^th Judicial District do not solicit participation or seek any information from jurors via the telephone.  Further, court employees do not, under any circumstances, request confidential information such as credit card or bank account information.

               If you receive a telephone call claiming you have missed jury duty and the caller requests confidential information, do not provide any information.  Please hang up the telephone and immediately contact the Office of Jury Management at 412-350-5336 and your local law enforcement agency.