Cherokee County

Recognize this voice? Someone keeps making prank calls over police, fire radios

CHEROKEE COUNTY, Ga. — A local sheriff's office said it has been dealing with someone tapping into their frequencies. Now, deputies are hoping someone will be able to recognize the man's voice.

The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office told Channel 2's Lauren Pozen the man has been making prank calls since May 15. The man is responsible for at least 50 calls over police and fire radios used to keep communities safe.

"That's treading waters you really have no business treading in because this is a public safety issue," community member Kenneth Whitaker said.

Pozen talked to investigators about the danger the calls pose.

"It's their lifeline to 911. It's their lifeline to other officers, and when they need assistance, they’re in a bad situation, they go to their radio. They don't have time to make a phone call,” said Jay Baker, of the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office.

The voice over the airwaves not only has made comments and jokes, but police said the person is also using tones.

The Sheriff’s Office said it has an investigator on the case and is also working with the Federal Communications Commission to track down whoever is behind the calls.

When they're caught, deputies say the consequences will be steep.

"Every transmission is about a $16,000 fine, violating two federal laws. There are also some state charges we can file, as well,” Baker said.

Investigators said they've got some leads coming in but need more. If you have any information that can help them, they want you to give them a call.