'Blue Light Bandit': Charlotte Man Accused Of Impersonating Cop

NORTH CAROLINA — A Charlotte man was arrested and charged with impersonating a law enforcement officer after he was accussed of attempting to get motorists to stop by using a blue light, the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office said.

James Douglas Miller, 52, was arrested March 11 by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and charged with felony impersonation of a law enforcement officer. He was issued a $25,000 secured bond and made his first appearance in court Friday.

According to the sheriff's office, state highway patrol received two reports of a possible "blue light bandit" in late February on US 74 in Rutherford County. During the course of the investigation, investigators identified a suspect vehicle and Miller as a suspect.

"The North Carolina State Highway Patrol takes these cases very seriously," RCSO said. "The dangerous and reckless acts of impersonation erode the trust and confidence the public must have in their law enforcement officers for them to be able to provide the services needed."

Here's what RCSO said drivers can do to prevent falling victim to someone impersonating a law enforcement officer:

• "The State Highway Patrol has a policy in place for all members operating an unmarked patrol car that the member should sound their siren (along with the blue lights) to signal a citizen to pull over," RCSO said. "Many times, the people that have illegally obtained a flashing blue light will not have their vehicle outfitted with the electronic equipment necessary for a functioning siren. If you aren’t sure, wait until you hear the sound of the siren before pulling over."
• "If you still are uncomfortable pulling over, especially at night or on a deserted highway, activate your four-way flashers and continue at a reduced speed until you reach a well-lit public area such as a convenience store or any open business," RCSO said. "Troopers understand this person is acknowledging their presence and request to pull over, but are simply looking for a safe place to stop."
• "If still unsure, an additional step you can take after activating your four-way flashers is to call *HP on your cellular phone," RCSO said. "Advise the Highway Patrol Telecommunicator the road name and county you are in and tell them you think you are being stopped by a trooper and you are looking for a safe place to stop. They can quickly confirm that information via radio communications and relay that message to the trooper."