Police in Mayfield Heights are asking citizens to be on alert after reports of a new, disturbing phone scam.
According to a police report posted on Facebook, a woman told authorities she received a call from a man Monday night who stated her husband had been involved in a car accident with the caller's brother and was refusing to pay damages. The man claimed the woman's husband was being held hostage, and that he would be killed if the money was not paid.
While still on the phone, the woman was able to make contact with her husband via email and told the caller she was aware it was a scam. She later contacted police in an effort to make sure others were aware of the situation.
After speaking with the woman, officials learned of a similar situation in Lyndhurst where a teacher at Hawken School received a call stating her husband was being held hostage. Police have not been able to confirm if the two incidents are related.
Anyone with information is asked to contact local authorities.
