September 18, 2025
YOAKUM, TX — A chilling phone scam with cartel-style intimidation tactics has surfaced in Yoakum, prompting an urgent warning from local law enforcement.
According to the Yoakum Police Department, a resident recently received a harrowing call from an unknown male who accused them of soliciting an escort and failing to pay. The caller then claimed to be a member of a violent cartel, demanded $5,000, and threatened brutal retaliation against the victim and their family. The caller had access to the victim’s name and address—and escalated the threat by sending graphic images of deceased individuals.
“This isn’t just a scam—it’s psychological warfare,” said one officer familiar with these types of cases. “They’re weaponizing fear.”
Homeland Security has confirmed that this is part of a broader, coordinated scam campaign now surfacing in multiple regions. The goal: extort money through terror and manipulation.
What Residents Must Know
Police are urging the public to take immediate precautions:
- Do not respond to random texts from unknown numbers.
- Do not answer calls from unfamiliar or suspicious numbers.
- If a caller threatens you, hang up immediately.
- Report any such incidents to law enforcement without delay.
“This is a new level of predatory behavior,” the department stated. “We need the public to stay alert, stay skeptical, and speak up.”
The Yoakum Police Department emphasized that community awareness is the first line of defense. Residents are encouraged to share this alert widely and report any suspicious activity.