Authorities warn Washington County drivers of roadside jewelry scam

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Authorities are warning residents about a national jewelry scam that has impacted Washington County drivers.

On Thursday, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office said multiple people had been reported for selling fake gold on highways and ramps within the past two weeks.

The agency explained that suspects “frantically wave down” drivers before approaching their vehicle to ask for cash in exchange for jewelry, insisting they are stranded and need gas money to return home.

“These individuals are pressing on the humanity, the willingness to help, of our community members,” WCSO Public Information Officer David Huey said. “And it kind of presses on that giving spirit of ‘Will you help me?,’ and then [takes] advantage of that.”

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the perpetrators typically drive higher-end rental vehicles. The agency added that some individuals make “aggressive demands” for cash, with Huey noting that one suspect opened a passenger side door.

Although the deputy told KOIN 6 these incidents were reported to deputies on Washington County’s west end, he said more drivers should be aware of the scam in case the suspects begin targeting other areas.

Law enforcement in Grants Pass, Oregon, California and Kansas have recently reported similar cases.

“Our goal is to get in front of this as much as possible to bring awareness. We want to prevent as many community members as possible from becoming victims of a scam,” he said.

Anyone affected by this scam is asked to report it to the Sheriff’s Office.