Memphis Police Crack Down on Fake Temporary Tags to Combat Crime

Memphis Takes a Stand Against Fake Temporary Tags

In the bustling city of Memphis, where the vibrant rhythm of everyday life can sometimes be interrupted by crime, local police are adopting a new approach to tackle auto-related offenses. They are going after those pesky fake temporary tags that have been making it easier for criminals to evade the law.

What’s Wrong with Fake Tags?

It might seem harmless to put a flimsy piece of paper in a car window, but those fake temporary tags can lead to serious trouble. Lt. Brian Scott from the Memphis Police Department pointed out that these illegal tags are not just simple forgeries; they’re a gateway to a host of criminal activities. “I see them going to calls, while on calls, people drive away,” Scott explained. And it’s true; in just a matter of moments, he was already spotting offenders.

A Ride-Along Adventure

Curious about how these operations work, local reporters joined the police on a ride-along. What they witnessed was both alarming and eye-opening. In less than 10 minutes into the patrol, Scott had pinpointed a vehicle flaunting fake tags—a quick reminder that this issue is far from insignificant. “We know he is in the general area, and we’re setting up a perimeter so he cannot get out,” he confidently stated.

As officers swarmed in on the suspect, an unexpected discovery was made. Police popped the trunk open only to find a stolen handgun and multiple counterfeit tags. The suspect was immediately arrested and is now facing several felony charges. Talk about a catch!

Identifying the Fakes

It’s not as simple as it sounds, though. Lt. Scott demonstrated how the police distinguish authentic tags from the fraudulent ones: “See how this one is photocopied? The seal is faded and blurry.” That’s a clear red flag. As the ride-along continued, officers confronted more and more drivers with fake tags, leading to multiple arrests. In one shocking instance, they discovered a car that had been stolen back in 2020, which had been repainted blue from its original gray color!

Changing Tactics in the Crime Race

With criminals constantly adapting, Memphis police are changing their strategies to stay one step ahead. Lt. Scott explained, “Thieves have shifted from stealing license plates to producing fake temporary tags.” This shift has prompted officers to use their probable cause to make stops for suspect tags. “It’s a game. They get one up on us, we get one up on them,” he noted, emphasizing the ongoing struggle between law enforcement and criminals.

A Proactive Approach

That’s not all; Lt. Scott highlighted that this operation reflects a proactive mindset rather than a reactive one. “There is a reason behind that,” he said, pointing out the number of fake tags they’ve apprehended. And can you believe it? The efforts are yielding positive results! The Memphis Shelby Crime Commission recently reported an impressive 20% reduction in stolen vehicles, a statistic that serves as a testament to their hard work.

The Community’s Role

The community also plays a key role in this initiative. Officers are encouraging residents to keep an eye out for suspicious vehicles and to report any sightings of counterfeit tags. Community awareness can help create a safer environment for everyone.

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it, Memphis! The fight against fake temporary tags isn’t just about enforcement; it’s a collective effort to ensure safety in our neighborhoods. As the police ramp up their operations, it looks like they’re well on their way to making Memphis a little safer, one fake tag at a time.