1-12-17 Shooting Range Deceptive Practice Arrest

On January 12, investigators with the Chattanooga Police Department's Property Crimes Unit were investigating recent metal thefts from Carter Shooting Supply. During the course of their investigation, they found a similar incident was scheduled to occur at The Shooters Depot on January 12. Details of the investigation follows.

Earlier this year, the suspect went to Carter Shooting Supply purporting to be an employee of a scrap metal business in order to obtain spent shell casings. The suspect collected the spent shell casings but he did not return to the businesses with their payment. The suspect was using a fake identification and business license. The suspect contacted The Shooters Depot and scheduled to pick up their spent shell casings on January 12. When the suspect collected the casings at The Shooters Depot, Chattanooga Police Officers, Investigators and partner agencies were observing the transaction and detained the suspects for questioning.

During the on scene investigation, investigators found that the vehicle driven by the suspects was reported stolen in Pennsylvania and the male was wanted in Texas for similar incidents. Heroin and multiple fake identifications were found inside the stolen vehicle.

Property Crimes Investigators arrested Christine Thompson for Criminal Impersonation, Possession of a Controlled Substance (Heroin), and Felony Theft (2 charges). Investigators also arrested Michael Mitchell for Criminal Impersonation, Criminal Simulation, Possession of a Controlled Substance (Heroin), and Felony Theft (2 charges).

The investigation is ongoing and more information will be released when available.

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NOTE: The preceding information is preliminary and is subject to change as the investigation continues.