SARASOTA, Fla. ( WWSB ) - The Sarasota Police Department says a phone scam artist is impersonating an officer and demanding money from citizens.

The department says it has received reports about the scam, where people are getting calls from someone pretending to be “Officer” or “Det. Robert Sanchez” from the Sarasota Police Department.

“The number even shows up on caller ID as ours, (941) 263-6773,” police said on social media.

The scammer tells a potential victim they are facing a criminal charge or ticket and demands cash to avoid being arrested.

“The Sarasota Police Department will NEVER call and demand money, gift cards or payment of any kind to avoid arrest,” the real police said on X.

If anyone gets such a call, police say to hang up. “If you’re unsure whether it’s legitimate,

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