UTC Department of Public Safety

This week we proudly recognize our UTC Police Department Communication Officers during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week 2026.

As the first point of contact for our community, they provide essential support, coordination, and calm in both routine and emergency situations.

We are grateful each and every day for their dedicated service to our community!

The UTC Police Department and UTC Department of Public Safety mourn the tragic loss of Hamilton County Sheriff's Office - TN Deputy Landon Faulkner. Deputy Faulkner served the citizens of Hamilton County with honor, dedication, and a commitment to protecting our community.

We extend our deepest condolences to Deputy Faulkner’s family and friends, and all of our colleagues at HCSO during this incredibly difficult time.

Today we hosted our very first First Responder Field Day as part of I Love University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Week and what an incredible turnout!

A huge thank you to our partners at Chattanooga Police Department, Chattanooga Fire Department, Hamilton County Sheriff's Office - TN, Hamilton County EMS, Hamilton County 911 Emergency Communications District, LIFE FORCE Air Medical, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Tennessee State Parks, TN Office of Homeland Security, U.S. Marshal’s Service, and U.S. Probation and Parole for the Eastern District of Tennessee for helping make this event such a success.

We’re grateful for your partnership and for all that you do every day to keep our community safe!

Public Safety Advisory: Sextortion Scams

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Police Department (UTCPD) is warning students about a growing sextortion scam targeting college students through dating apps and social media. Over the past year, UTCPD has investigated several cases involving this scheme, with incidents ranging in severity.

How the Scam Works
-Unknown individuals connect with students on dating apps or social media.
-They build a false sense of trust and engage in online relationships.
-Once explicit images or videos are exchanged, the suspect demands money or more images, threatening to release the content publicly if the victim refuses.

For more information, visit utc.edu/alert

UTC Community:

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the Chattanooga/Hamilton County, TN area from 1:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026. A small amount of snow is expected, with accumulations ranging from a dusting to one-half inch. Additionally, a Cold Weather Advisory is in effect from 5:00 a.m. Saturday, January 31, through 1:00 p.m. Sunday, February 1, 2026. Very cold wind chills are expected.

At this time, there will be no changes to University operations. Current forecasts for the Chattanooga/Hamilton County, TN area indicate minimal impact.

Please use caution while walking or driving, as sidewalks, parking lots, and roadways may be slippery. Due to extremely cold temperatures, limit time outdoors when possible and wear appropriate winter clothing.

Message issued on 1/30/2026 at 2:30 PM

UTC-ALERT: UTC will resume normal operations on 1/27/2026. See UTC email or utc.edu/alert for more information.

UTC-ALERT: Due to hazardous conditions in outlying areas and higher elevations, campus operations will be modified for 1/26/26. See UTC email or utc.edu/alert for details.

UTC-ALERT: Due to anticipated hazardous weather, campus operations will be modified for 1/24/26 and 1/25/26. See UTC email or utc.edu/alert for details.

UTC Community:

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is actively monitoring the incoming winter weather forecasted for our region. We are closely tracking conditions using information from the National Weather Service (NWS) and our on-campus weather monitoring systems, while coordinating with the Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management (HCOEM), the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), and other local and state partners.

At this time, there are no changes to University operations. Current forecasts for the Chattanooga area indicate precipitation will be primarily rain; earlier models had suggested the potential for freezing rain, sleet, or snow. As weather conditions and forecasts continue to evolve, DPS will continue to assess potential impacts. An update will be provided by the end of the day tomorrow, Friday, January 23, 2026. As always, any decisions will prioritize the safety of our students, employees, and affiliates.

Thank you for your patience as we continue to monitor the situation.

Message issued on 1/22/2026 at 5:00 PM

Welcome back, Mocs! The UTC Department of Public Safety and UTC Police Department are glad to have you back on campus. We’re here 24/7 if you need us. Have a great semester!

🎉 Happy New Year from the UTC Department of Public Safety and UTC Police Department! Wishing everyone a safe, healthy, and successful year ahead.

Happy Holidays from the men, women, and canines of the UTC Department of Public Safety and UTC Police Department! 🐾🎁 Sending warm wishes and plenty of tail wags your way.