Posts have been popping up on social media accounts in Troy in recent days claiming that an African American man impersonating a police officer and an Asian woman going around knocking on doors. The posts claim these people are sex traffickers.

Troy University and Troy Police Department officials said they have both received numerous reports related to sex trafficking, but have found no evidence of any of the events occurring.

“Over the last couple of days, there have been several postings on social media about incidents involving persons impersonating police officers and knocking on doors; individuals that are being identified as sex traffickers both on and off campus; and other incidents that would be considered safety concerns for students and the community in general,” said Herb Reeves, dean of student services. “Based on conversations with the campus police and city police, there have been no documented reports of police impersonators or any individuals that have been identified as potential sex traffickers.”

University and police officials are urging anyone with first-hand knowledge of any similar incident to report them immediately to Troy University Police at 334-670-3215 or to Troy Police a 334-566-0500.

“We want to raise awareness and to ask you to be alert at all times to your surroundings and be safety conscience at all times,” Reeves said.
“We also ask your help in reporting things you see or that may occur so we have accurate information that we can disseminate to the campus and community.”

Reeves shared several tips for students and residents as homecoming weekend approaches.

• Travel in groups both on and off campus. Go places as a group and come home as a group. Never leave others with people you do not know.
• Know your surroundings and only go places you are familiar with.
• While at home, open doors only for those that you know.
• Be responsible in the use of alcohol and take care of others that may have consumed too much. Never accept a drink from someone you do not know and trust.
• Report suspicious behavior. Remember, if you see something, say something by calling the police.