Jury Summons Scam in West Texas Uses PayPal

West Texas authorities are investigating a jury summons scam in which a caller demands payment on a $1,000 fine via PayPal or else the victim faces arrest.

Midland County Sheriff Gary Painter said Wednesday the man makes random calls, tells people they failed to appear for jury duty and must immediately pay online. The caller promises a courthouse meeting to provide a receipt, but he never shows up.

Painter was contacted Tuesday about an elderly woman who fell for the scheme. He says at least one other person was contacted but did not pay. The sheriff says anyone else receiving such fake jury duty calls and online payment demands should contact investigators.

California-based PayPal said in a statement Wednesday the company is investigating the matter and offering to assist authorities.