Thursday, February 4, 2016

Impersonator Makes Traffic Stop

Law Enforcement Impersonator In the Grand Valley Area

Mesa County, Colo -- On February 3, 2016, at 12:40 am, the Mesa County Sheriff's Office received a report of an individual impersonating a law enforcement officer making a traffic stop near I-70 Business Loop and 31 1/2 Road.   
                 
The reporting person said a small black car, possibly a Dodge Dart with blacked out windows, attempted to drive past their car, then pulled behind them and displayed "police lights." The driver stopped and they along with their passenger were contacted by a white male (possibly with a beard), in his early 20s, approximately 6 feet tall with a stocky build.  The impersonator asked to see documentation and after a short conversation, he returned to his car and left. 

This contact was made by someone other than a law enforcement officer and this is the only report the Mesa County Sheriff's Office has received at this point.  

The community’s safety is paramount and this type of event is a rarity.  Agencies in the Grand Valley do utilize unmarked vehicles.  But, if you believe you are being contacted by someone who is not a law enforcement officer, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. 

- Call 911 and let them know who you are, where you are and ask if the person that is contacting you is a true law enforcement officer, or  
- If you are close to law enforcement agency, drive there, or
- Stop in a well-lit area with others around