Fake Cop: Man Caught Riding In Western Mass In Fake Police Car With Gun, Badge

A man with a history of impersonating a police officer was arrested in Franklin County on Tuesday, June 13, for dressing up like a cop and riding around in a car that mimicked a patrol cruiser, the real police said.

Bernardston police pulled over a car Tuesday night, June 13, that was painted to look like a patrol cruiser with the driver inside decked out in a tactical vest, fake police badge, gun, handcuffs, and a knife, authorities said.
Photo Credit: *Bernardston Police Department*

Josh Lanier

06/14/2023 6:44 p.m.

The man, whose name has not been released, was pulled over in Bernardston after officers noticed his Crown Victoria car had a paint scheme nearly identical to that of a police cruiser, authorities said.

The driver was decked out in a tactical vest with a police-style badge pinned to the front. He also had a pistol, handcuffs, knives, and several other items officers carry while on duty, Bernardston police said.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, and the man is being held in jail pending a dangerousness hearing.

But this is not his firm time playing dress-up.

He's known in New Hampshire for impersonating a police officer, among other things, Bernardston police said.

Officers said they want residents to remain vigilant and to call 911 if they feel something isn't right.

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