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After Police Officer Impersonation Traffic Stop, ASU Urges Caution When Pulled Over By Unmarked Car

Nov. 11, 2013. On Friday, Nov. 8, at approximately 2:00 am, a female student reported to ASU Police an incident involving a man who allegedly impersonated a police officer.

The student indicated she was traveling in her vehicle on Hill Street at approximately 12:30 am when she was pulled over by a light gold or silver compact car, possibly a Chevrolet Malibu; the vehicle had no police markings and displayed a blue light on the interior dashboard. The student described the man as being a white male, late 30s to early 40s in age, approximately 5-foot-8, medium build, clean shaven with a gold stud earring in his left ear lobe, wearing dark blue or black BDU type clothing, a black toboggan and carrying a flashlight. According to the student, the man spoke with a noticeable “country” accent and was not wearing a gun, duty belt or radio which raised her suspicion that he wasn’t a police officer.  

ASU Police are advising everyone to use caution when being pulled over by unmarked vehicles displaying only blue lights. All legitimate unmarked Police vehicles are equipped with blue lights and siren, if you are unsure that it’s really a police officer because the car is unmarked, they don’t use a siren or the person is not in uniform, you should turn on your flashers, call 911 to confirm that it’s actually a police officer and drive slowly to the nearest police station or to a well-lit public area before pulling over.

If you have information about a crime we ask that you contact the ASU Police Department at (828) 262-2150 or Crimestoppers at (828) 268-6959. If your information leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a reward up to $1000.00.

You may also report crimes anonymously at: http://police.appstate.edu/crime-tip-submission-form

Tips for keeping SAFE:

All Law Enforcement Officers carry photo identification with their badges, and are required to display them if asked. Citizens are encouraged to ask for identification as anyone can purchase a new or used badge off the internet.

Do not be afraid to have the officer hold up his badge and ID so that you can read it. Take the time to read them and look for the agency name and officer’s name. (Please note: Officers will not allow you to hold or otherwise take possession of their identification.)

Do not be afraid to advise the officer that you intend to call dispatch and verify the officers identity.

Call 911 if you believe the person is posing as a Law Enforcement Officer.

Remember, if it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Your safety is most important.