CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The Clarksville Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect pretending to be law enforcement in order to take money from victims.

According to CPD spokesman, Scott Beaubien, police have taken several reports recently for fraud, false pretenses, and scams.

Detectives are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect who contacted two separate victims and informed them that they had a federal warrant for their arrest. The suspect is a Black male wearing a black Polo, khaki pants, short curly/twisted hair, tall, thin build, and no facial hair.

Detectives with the Clarksville Police Department are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a black male who contacted two separate victims and informed them that they had a federal warrant for their arrest, May 10, 2024. (CPD contributed)

The victims were instructed to meet him at 2 Millennium Plaza (downtown Clarksville) and pay him cash to take care of the warrants.

CPD reiterates that at no time will anyone from a law enforcement agency request that you make a payment in cash, over the phone, or load money onto a prepaid card (Apple gift card, Green Dot card) to take care of an outstanding warrant.

“This is a common tactic used by scammers, and we urge the public to remain cautious and informed,” Beaubien said. “In almost every case, the victim received a phone call from an individual representing themselves as someone with the Clarksville Police Department or the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. To avoid going to jail, the victim would need to pay some type of fine or fee.”

Beaubien said the suspect used a method called “Caller ID spoofing,” which is the practice of falsifying information about an incoming call on the receiver’s caller ID display.

In some instances, the number that appears on the caller ID is the CPD’s phone number, (931) 648-0656, or the MCSO phone number, (931) 648-0611. The scammer also gave the name of an actual person who has worked for or is currently employed with CPD or MCSO.

Anyone with information or additional video footage is asked to contact Detective Smith at (931) 648-0656, ext. 5695. To remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward, submit a tip online at the Clarksville-Montgomery County Crime Stoppers website or call the Tipline, 931-645-8477.