CMPD warns of scammers in uptown during playoff game

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officers issued warnings about counterfeit tickets and unscrupulous parking attendants in the days before Sunday's playoff game.

CMPD held a press conference Thursday to address possible crime during what they called a "high-energy, high-stakes" environment in uptown Charlotte during the playoff game.

"The game itself, I think is going to be business as usual, but the area around it, I think we are looking for a heightened sense of excitement," said Capt. Mike Campagna.

Officers warned fans to avoid bagged parking meters and street parking, saying some would-be parking attendants can actually target fans.

"There are some people that will try to direct you into some bad places, and take your money. Then, when you come out, your car is towed," said Campagna.

That sentiment is echoed by the people who tow the cars.

“You want to pay attention to the signs,” David Williams, with Eastway Wrecker, said. “You want to pay attention to the bagged meters.”

Police also said fans should purchase last-minute tickets from the official NFL ticket exchange website and avoid scalpers and counterfeit tickets at all costs.

"If you find yourself purchasing them on the street, you do so (at) your own risk," Campagna said.

Police said fans should be on their best behavior, limit alcohol intake and try to avoid altercations with 49ers fans, no matter the game's outcome.

"Bring your manners when you come uptown. We don't want anybody's fun to be ruined by a fight or dispute where we have to get involved," Campagna said.

Williams says they have to tow cars that are in the way of traffic even if the driver believes they paid to park there.

Panthers Pride Kickoff Party live Friday

Channel 9 will bring you everything Panthers playoffs in prime time Friday night.

Join Eyewitness News anchors Erica Bryant and Blair Miller at 8 p.m. for the Panthers' Pride Kickoff Party live from the EpiCentre. We will have player interviews, important information for fans about traffic, parking and tickets.

Plus ESPN.com David Newton will be answering fans' questions live on Twitter. The show airs live from 8 - 9 p.m.

For more details on the live show, click here.

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