Two men posing as security guards are accused of slipping into apartments in northwest Atlanta and walking out with cash, clothing and a firearm, according to police. The break-ins happened on the evening of May 1 at a Hollywood Road NW complex, and investigators say they are still trying to figure out how the suspects got inside. Officers had not announced any arrests as of this report.
Police told reporters the two suspects went into residences at 1888 Hollywood Road NW around 8:15 p.m. and took the items, according to Atlanta News First. Anyone with information has been asked to contact Atlanta police.
How the ruse works
Criminals sometimes use uniforms, fake badges or scripted stories to lower residents’ guard, the Federal Trade Commission warns. The FTC recommends verifying identification by calling the agency or company’s published phone number, never letting unverified visitors inside, and reporting suspicious encounters. The agency offers guidance for avoiding government-impersonator scams on the Federal Trade Commission website.
What residents should do
Atlanta police advise anyone who encounters a person claiming to be security staff or law enforcement to ask for official identification, call the agency’s published number to confirm and, if you feel unsafe, contact 911. The department lists its non-emergency line as 404-658-6666 and directs residents to report tips. It also notes that anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477), according to the Atlanta Police Department website (Atlanta Police Department).
How to share what you know
Police say video from doorbell cameras and any witness accounts can be critical in identifying suspects and recovering stolen property. If you have footage or information about the Hollywood Road incidents, call 911 for an emergency report or share tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or at StopCrimeATL.org.
