In case you didn’t already know… Impersonating an officer is very illegal, and could result in a $1,000 fine.
If you live in Towns County, Georgia, be on the lookout for a heavily tinted Dodge Charger perusing county lines using a single red light to pull people over. The Sheriff’s Office of the region posted a PSA about a man dressed impersonating an officer, using his all-black, tinted Charger to play dress up.
“An unknown individual has been reported in multiple counties surrounding our area pulling over cars and approaching citizens impersonating a law enforcement officer,” the Towns County Sheriff’s Office‘s announcement read.
“They are using a black Dodge Charger with tinted windows and a single emergency light with a tinted tag cover to conceal their tag.”
The agency described him as a “smaller” white man with brown hair, wearing a gray and dark blue uniform. Residents have also mentioned a vest as part of his ensemble, complete with a radio and handcuffs. The Sheriff’s Office says their official uniforms are all black, and have a “distinct” badge.
The police say if you’re unsure, call 911
If drivers in the area suspect they’ve been pulled over by the false officer, they’re urged to call 911.
“If you are ever in doubt do not hesitate to call 911 explain your fear and a qualified member of Towns County 911 will guide you as to what to do next,” the office wrote.
“Citizen safety is our top priority and we are taking these reports as a personal attack on your safety and all members of the law enforcement community that protect the roads we travel every day.”
Obviously, impersonating a police officer and pulling citizens over is a crime and should not be done, as serious consequences tend to follow.
In Georgia, the man could face felony charges
Georgia takes officer impersonation very seriously, and anyone caught doing so can be fined up to $1,000 or face a prison term of one to five years or both.
It’s also illegal to modify your car to look like a police cruiser to impersonate an officer, too, according to Georgia Code § 40-6-395. It reads:
“Impersonation of law enforcement officer by use of motor vehicle or motorcycle designed, equipped, or marked so as to resemble motor vehicle or motorcycle belonging to law enforcement agency.”
Given how much attention the Sheriff’s Office’s post has earned since its original posting date of January 31, it won’t be long until the crook is cooked.
