Hit Man's E-Mail Is Bogus Scam

An e-mail from a purported hit man is making its rounds, threatening immediate death to the recipient if they don't fork over $8,000.

It's a scam, officials say.

The sheriff's office released the text of the e-mail Wednesday to warn folks not to panic or, worse, pay out. In a nutshell, the sender, a Mr. Jack Brown, warns that he's been paid to "eliminate" you if you don't comply with his directions.

For all his threats to hurt family members if police are notified, Mr. Brown apparently has a bit of a soft spot because he begins his evil epistle: "I felt very sorry and bad for you, that your life is going to end like this if you don't comply ..."

Further proving that he is in a generous mood, Mr. Brown reveals that even though he has sent his "boys" to "track you down," he's stayed their hand for the moment. Why?

"I just felt something good and sympathetic about you," Mr. Brown writes.

So, to repeat, it is OK to go out past 7 p.m., despite the warning in the e-mail. There is no one out to get you (at least no one with ties to Mr. Brown). And there is no reason to pay out $8,000 to save your life.

Authorities say this scam comes from outside the United States.

They are not aware of anyone who has sent money to Mr. Brown, but if you have, contact the sheriff's office at 352-754-6830.