Highland Park Officer In Unmarked Car Sparks Questions

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — Highland Park police Thursday clarified the duties of plainclothes officers and officers using unmarked cars in response to community confusion.

According to the Highland Park Police Department, confusion sparked when an officer using an unmarked, but official squad car visited a residence in the Sunset Woods area to follow-up on an investigation. The officer was wearing a police vest and was armed.

In response to the visit, the homeowner contacted dispatch to confirm the officer's identity. Dispatch confirmed to the homeowner that there was no danger to the public and no other agencies were involved.

"This important step is a safeguard against potential scammers or criminals who may attempt to impersonate officials to gain access to a residence or obtain personal information," HPPD said in a statement. "We understand that community members may have questions about the legitimacy of interactions with plainclothes police officers or officers conducting traffic stops in unmarked cars, particularly in light of recent national events."

This week, a man was arrested in connection to the shooting deaths of two Democratic lawmakers in Minnesota. According to law enforcement, the man disguised himself as a police officer to enter the homes of Senator John A. Hoffman and Rep. Melissa Hortman.

In Highland Park, it is typical for some police officers to work while out of full uniform or drive unmarked cars while conducting traffic stops. Officers understand that individuals may call 911 to confirm that an officer has been dispatched to an incident or residence.

The police department recommended the following steps if an individual claiming to be an officer pays them an unannounced visit:

• Call 911 or the public safety non-emergency line at 847.432.7730 for confirmation that an officer was dispatched to your home.
• Refuse to allow the person to enter your home until you have confirmed the officer's identity with 911 dispatchers.
• Keep the door locked. When answering the door, speak with the visitor through the door.

For more information and guidance on how to avoid ruse burglaries and remain safe during interactions with law enforcement, visit the city's website.