EDITOR’S NOTE: On March 9, 2023 Niagara Regional Police charged a 21-year-old they say fabricated this story about encountering an individual impersonating a peace officer in Niagara Falls. The accused is facing a public mischief offence. Detectives are not seeking a man allegedly impersonating an officer. This story has not been altered in keeping with Global News’ transparency standards.
Police are seeking help from the public in identifying a man accused of impersonating a police officer in Niagara Falls, Ont.
Investigators say a resident came forward with the complaint after a man, believed to be in his 20s, pulled them over around 6 p.m. Monday near Drummond Road near Prospect Street.
“The complainant pulled to the side of the road and was approached by the suspect who gave the impression he was a police officer,” a Niagara police spokesperson told Global News in email.
“When the complainant became suspicious, the suspect was asked for his name and badge number, at which point … returned to his vehicle and fled the area.”
The man was driving a black vehicle with white doors and emergency lighting.
When he approached the complainant he was dressed in black with a name tag and utility belt containing handcuffs and a baton.
Detectives want to hear from anyone that might have had a similar encounter with the suspect.
Police are also seeking surveillance video from nearby residents and businesses, as well as witnesses to the Drummond Road stop.
Anyone with information can reach out to Niagara police or Crime Stoppers.