Chattanooga police are looking for two young men who reportedly posed as police officers and then robbed three people early this morning.
Police responded to the report just after 3 a.m. at 1600 Willow St. and spoke to three victims, spokeswoman Sgt. Jerri Weary said. The victims described two robbers, one with a knife and one with a gun, who initially told them that they were police. They showed the victims a gold-and-black badge, then demanded their wallets, Sgt. Weary said.
After taking their wallets, money and cell phones, the robbers ran away. The investigation is continuing.
Police are urging residents to be cautious when out in secluded and dimly lighted areas, especially late at night, Sgt. Weary said. Chattanooga Police Department officers may be identified through their official department badge, is visible on the left chest of the standard uniform or on the waistband of those working plainclothes operations.
If you are questioning whether you are encountering a Chattanooga police officer, call 423-698-2525 and reference the officer's badge number.