The Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court is warning the public about a resurfacing scam targeting family members of individuals recently booked into the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC).

In the reported scam, family members receive a phone call from someone posing as an “official” who provides detailed information about a recently booked family member. The caller then demands payment in the form of gift cards in exchange for the inmate’s release to the “MDC Annex.”

“It’s important to remember that the information provided by these scammers is easily accessible on jail or court websites as public records,” said Lissa Quintana, Court Executive Officer of the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court. “If you suspect that something doesn’t sound right, please call the jail or the court directly to verify the information.”

As a reminder, individuals cannot be released from custody through gift card or cash app payments. If eligible to be released on bond, payment must be received in-person at the courthouse, and the court only accepts cash, cashier’s checks, or money orders. A driver’s license or other government issued ID must also be presented.

The court urges anyone who receives a suspicious call requesting payment for an inmate’s release not to provide gift card numbers, financial information, or other personal information.

Anyone with questions should contact the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court directly at 505-841-8151 or visit metro.nmcourts.gov for up-to-date court case information.