Raleigh man with history of officer impersonation arrested for fake traffic stop
RALEIGH — A Raleigh man with a previous conviction for impersonating a police officer has been arrested on charges of conducting a fake traffic stop and kidnapping, according to police officials.
The Raleigh Police Department arrested the suspect following an investigation into a reported incident where the man allegedly pulled over a vehicle while posing as a law enforcement officer. The victim was reportedly held against their will during the encounter.
Police have not released the suspect’s name pending formal charges being filed. The department confirmed the man has a documented history of similar offenses involving the impersonation of police officers.
Details of the Incident
The alleged fake traffic stop occurred within Raleigh city limits, police reported. During the encounter, the suspect allegedly detained the victim in what authorities are treating as a kidnapping case.
Investigators have not disclosed the specific location where the incident took place or the duration of the alleged detention. Police officials said the victim was able to contact authorities after the encounter.
Previous Convictions
Court records show the suspect has been convicted previously on charges related to impersonating a law enforcement officer. The exact details of those prior convictions were not immediately available.
Police officials emphasized that impersonating an officer is a serious felony offense in North Carolina. The crime becomes more severe when coupled with additional charges such as kidnapping or unlawful detention.
“This type of behavior puts innocent people at risk and undermines public trust in legitimate law enforcement,” a police spokesperson said.
Ongoing Investigation
The Raleigh Police Department is continuing its investigation into the incident. Detectives are working to determine if there may be additional victims of similar crimes involving the suspect.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have been approached by someone impersonating a police officer to contact the Raleigh Police Department immediately. Officials recommend that drivers who are uncertain about a traffic stop should call 911 to verify the legitimacy of the officer.
Police remind the public that legitimate law enforcement officers will have proper identification, marked vehicles with emergency lights, and will allow drivers to verify their identity through dispatch if requested.
The suspect remains in custody while the investigation continues. Formal charges are expected to be filed pending the completion of the police investigation and review by the Wake County District Attorney’s Office.
Sources: WRAL
