Department of Safety and Homeland Security Driver License Examiners, THP Halt Identity Theft

NASHVILLE--- Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security driver license examiners and the Tennessee Highway Patrol prevented a Nashville man from obtaining a fraudulent identification card at the Bonny Oaks Driver Service Center in Chattanooga on Tuesday afternoon.

Curtis Gordon, Jr., 47, of Nashville was taken into custody for allegedly using his brother’s birth certificate and social security card to obtain an ID. He was charged with criminal impersonation and theft of identity, and booked at the Hamilton County Jail.

Driver license examiners were alerted of suspicious activity after the driver license photo in the database did not resemble Gordon. They immediately notified a Branch Supervisor, who also became suspicious of irregularities with Gordon’s story. The supervisor then requested assistance from the Tennessee Highway Patrol. 

Two troopers arrived on scene and began their initial investigation. After conflicting statements from Gordon, the investigators developed probable cause and placed the suspect under arrest. 

State Troopers assigned to the THP’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) Identity Theft Unit responded to the jail to assist in the investigation. After further review, investigators were able to confirm Gordon’s identity. It was also discovered that he was on probation out of Gallatin for aggravated burglary, and was wanted by Metro-Nashville on a felony warrant. Gordon was also a registered sex offender.  

“A top priority for our department is safeguarding the identity of Tennessee citizens to prevent identity theft,” Commissioner Bill Gibbons said. “We are aggressively pursuing any attempts to steal one’s identity. The successful outcome of this collaborative effort between our driver license examiners and law enforcement officials is a testament to our commitment.”

Photos can be obtained at the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.

The Tennessee Department of Safety’s (www.TN.Gov/safety) mission is to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public.  The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.   

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