Police Impersonation Under Investigation In Caln Township

CALN TWP, PA —It appears that police impersonators are harassing motorists on highways in Chester County, Caln Township police reported Monday.

Police are seeking help in identifying two alleged suspects who on Aug. 25 were pretending to be law enforcement officers.

The suspects were both driving black Ford Tauruses with flashing lights resembling unmarked police vehicles along Route 340, south of the Route 30 Bypass.

The alleged impersonators were dressed in black, wearing vests with “POLICE” on the front and back.

According to police reports:

• A 17-year-old male reported that he was stopped by a black Taurus with flashing lights between 9:30 and 10 a.m. Aug. 25
• The vehicle had blue and red lights positioned in the windshield on either side of the rearview mirror and heavily tinted windows.
• The driver was described as a white male in his early 20s, 5 feet 6 inches tall, with a thin build and short, blond hair.
• The driver did not identify himself.
• The victim reported that the driver was armed with a Taser, which he did not use.
• The victim said he was briefly handcuffed for a minor traffic infraction.
• The victim said a second driver, also in a black Ford Taurus, released him from the handcuffs.
• The second subject was described as a white male in his late 20’s, about 6 feet, with a muscular build, and dark, shaggy “bedhead” hair.

Caln Township police said these tactics are not consistent with proper police procedure.
Township police said they contacted all area police departments, and the description of the subjects and subject vehicles are not consistent with personnel or vehicles assigned to those agencies.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt. Christine Cusick at 610-383-1821, ext. 181.

Safety Tips

Caln Township police provided these tips for motorist to protect themselves against law enforcement impersonators:

• Activate your hazard lights to notify the officer that you are complying with the request to pull over.
• Call 911 on your cell phone and ask the dispatcher to verify that it is an officer trying to pull you over or stop you.
• Have the dispatcher verify your vehicle description and your location and stop when it’s safe.
• If it is dark, pull over to a well-lit area, such as a convenience store.
• Lock your door and do not get out of the vehicle to meet the officer.
• Ask where they work, and if you can contact their dispatch center to confirm their identity.
• You may also request that a marked patrol unit respond.
• Look for an official agency badge, equipment or uniform.
• If the officer is in plainclothes, you can request that the officer show some identification.
• Most officers will advise you of the reason for the stop and request your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
• If they immediately tell you to get out of the car without any preliminary questions, be suspicious.
• Call your local law enforcement agency immediately if you have concerns.