Over the past few weeks, Smyrna Police have been investigating reports of unknown suspects attempting to extort/solicit money from persons they meet on dating web sites, according to authorities.
Officials said the suspects pose as young women and eventually exchange explicit photos with unsuspecting victims. Once photos are exchanged, the suspects contact the victim’s and tell them that they are Smyrna Police Officers who are investigating them for exchanging photos with underage females. These suspects then demand that the victims pay them or they will be arrested.
Police said that the suspects typically solicit untraceable sources of money such as green dot cards, pay pal etc.
It is believed at this time that this scam is nationwide and not just local. The public is reminded that the Police will never solicit money from them during an investigation or as a way to avoid arrest.
If anyone ever questions someone purporting to be a Smyrna Police officer they are encouraged to call 911 or our 24/7 dispatch center at (302) 653-9217.
Any persons experiencing this scam are encouraged to contact their local law enforcement or SPD Detective Bill Davis.