Telephone scammers are calling unwary citizens, posing as deputies claiming citizens owe the department money for payment for legal mat ters.

The Allegan County Sheriff’s office warns area residents that suspects are calling people and advising them they have legal troubles and tell them to call back the number they provide. The scammers sometimes ask to meet in person to exchange money.

Allegan County Deputies say they never call people request payment for legal matters.

They ask those who receive a call and are not sure if it is legitimate, to contact Allegan County Sheriff’s office at (269) 673-3899.