Campbell County’s New Crypto Account Aims to Combat Rising Cryptocurrency Scams
Campbell County, VA – In response to an increase in cryptocurrency-related scams affecting local residents, Campbell County officials have announced the opening of a dedicated cryptocurrency exchange account to help recover stolen assets and return them to victims.
The new initiative involves setting up a business account with Kraken, a major cryptocurrency exchange platform. This account will be used exclusively to aid law enforcement investigations and process court-ordered claims related to crypto scams, not for investing purposes, according to county Finance Director and Treasurer Laura Lewis.
At the Campbell County Fiscal Court meeting on August 6, County Administrator Matt Elberfeld highlighted a surge in scams where criminals demand payments in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, using fraudulent tactics including impersonation of law enforcement officers.
Detective and forensic examiner Steve Kush, who specializes in computer crimes, has successfully tracked and intercepted some of these illicit cryptocurrency transactions before funds disappear permanently.
“This Kraken account will serve as the final step in getting recovered assets back to victims,” Elberfeld explained. Funds diverted to this county-controlled account will be converted to traditional currency and then disbursed via restitution checks, all authorized under court orders.
The measure is considered unique in this region as it adds a direct mechanism to counteract the anonymity and irreversibility typically associated with cryptocurrency transactions.
Phone Scams and Public Warnings
Alongside efforts to recoup funds, the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office continues to issue warnings about ongoing Bitcoin warrant scams. Scammers often call victims, falsely claiming they have outstanding warrants to pressure immediate payment via Bitcoin or other untraceable methods.
Authorities emphasize that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never demand payment over the phone or request cryptocurrency payments to clear warrants.
In July and August 2025, several locals fell victim to these scams after receiving calls from individuals impersonating Campbell County officers. The scam becomes particularly convincing by sending fake arrest warrants bearing the victim’s real name, leading victims to believe the threat is genuine.
One victim described how the scammers guided her through purchasing Bitcoin at a gas station after withdrawing cash from a bank, spurred by fear of arrest.
Protective Measures and Advice
Experts advise residents to be cautious of urgent requests for Bitcoin payments and to never share personal or financial information over unsolicited phone calls. The Campbell County Sheriff’s Office recommends hanging up immediately and reporting suspected scams.
Additionally, statewide agencies like the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services have recently highlighted the rising threat cryptocurrency scams pose especially to older adults and vulnerable populations, urging vigilance and proper reporting channels for abuse or exploitation.
Resources for Victims
If you or someone you know falls victim to a cryptocurrency scam, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) suggest the following steps:
- Stop sending cryptocurrency immediately.
- Collect and preserve documentation of all communications and transactions.
- Report the scam to local law enforcement and federal agencies promptly.
Campbell County officials hope that the new Kraken account and heightened public awareness efforts will stem the tide of these sophisticated scams that exploit both fear and technology.
“By working closely between the county’s finance office, police department, and legal offices, we’re taking innovative steps to protect our residents and recover their losses,” said Elberfeld.