The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office announces that multiple local citizens have reported being targeted with a Notice of Default scam document that looks like it is generated by the State of Louisiana and the Municipal Courts of New Orleans. (shown below)
Sheriff Brent Barnett provides red flags for you to look out for if you receive a similar document such as:
• Aggressive urgency language
Phrases like “final and urgent warning,” “immediate action required,” and threats of severe consequences are classic scam tactics to pressure you.
• QR code for payment/action
Courts do NOT require you to scan a QR code to resolve a legal matter. That’s a major red flag.
• Generic formatting / unofficial style
Real court notices typically:
Come via mail with official envelopes
Include clear clerk contact info and case verification instructions
Do not look like promotional flyers
• Missing key verification details
No official docket lookup instructions
No clear way to verify the case online through a known government site
Case number format looks suspicious/unverified
• Overly broad violations
“Parking violation / toll violation” lumped together is vague and unusual for a formal court notice.
• Signature looks printed/fake
“Paul López” appears stylized and not like a real signed court document.
• Date coincidence
Issued March 2 with a hearing March 23 — very short timeline for a formal court notice, especially without certified delivery.
• Phone number is incorrect.
(504) 656-8500 is not the real phone number to Municipal Court of New Orleans
(504) 658-8500 is the actual phone number to the Municipal Court of New Orleans; one number was changed.
What you should do/don’t do
• Do NOT scan the QR code
• Do NOT send any money
• Do not click links or call numbers listed on that document
How to verify safely:
• Go directly to the official New Orleans Municipal Court website (type it yourself, don’t use links)
• Call the court using a trusted number from their official site
• Look up your case using your name or real citation number
