CMPD Warns of Crime with Panthers’ Winning Streak

 CHARLOTTE, NC — CMPD says with hype over Panthers’ success, comes crime.

Police expect hundreds of scalpers selling tickets outside of Sunday’s game, many of them fake.

Police tell WCCB Charlotte the scalpers are so good, people pay hundreds for tickets and don’t even know they’ve been scammed until they get to the gate.

Major Johnny Jennings says criminals have the technology to create nearly identical Panthers tickets, or they simply copy someone else’s online purchase papers.

Reports show victims have paid up to $900 for a phony ticket.

“They’re just out for that money,” said Maj. Jennings.

He says there are more than 200 scalpers at every game, but many people don’t report fake ticket sales, and scammers walk.

“A lot of people are embarrassed by the fact that they’ve been duped out of a great deal of money,” said Maj. Jennings.

WCCB Charlotte spoke to Lex Altman last year when he lost hundreds.

“I was real smart about it. [Asked] why are you selling? What was your favorite game? And he had good answers for all of them,” said Altman.

Since sidewalk selling is legal, it’s a gamble.

“Never had an issue at all,” said Joe Perrigo.

To avoid a con’s scam, ask for their ID. Write down their information. Call the ticket office and ask if the serial number is real.

Police say you can even take a picture with the scalper. If you get to the gate, and your ticket is fake, you can show officers as evidence.

If you do buy a ticket on the street, police say the seller can’t charge you more than $3 over face value.