Real OPP officers are looking for someone posing as a cop that pulled a vehicle over yesterday on Highway 17 near McIssac Drive in the Bissett Creek area east of Mattawa.
"At approximately 5:05 p.m. on September 23, an individual was driving westbound when they noticed they were being followed by a black older vehicle," says Sergeant Annie Collins. "The driver of the vehicle activated police-style emergency blue lights and indicated the vehicle pull over."
Collins says a man got out of the older black car and approached the driver.
"He demanded to see the driver's license, insurance and registration. The male requested the victim drive to another road. Then the male conducted a search of the vehicle and accosted the victim."
The driver reported the encounter to the police.
The impersonator is described as:
- Caucasian
- Approximately 35-40 years-of-age,
- About 5'8" (173 cm) in height.
- Spoke clear English
- Wearing clothing that included an OPP shoulder patch
- Wearing a blue hat
The suspect vehicle is described as an unmarked older black sedan with a yellow reflective stripe on the passenger side and it is equipped with emergency blue lights in the front grill.
Police say if you have questions about the authenticity of the officer at a traffic stop, you may ask to see an officer's badge and warrant card.
"Some officers and off-duty officers may not be wearing uniforms but they will be able to provide you with the name of their service, detachment, badge number, rank, and produce a badge and warrant card without delay.," says Collins. "A uniformed officer may be requested to attend the location should the need arise."
Motorists who suspect they have been pulled over or confronted by a police impersonator should lock their doors and immediately call 9-1-1. Do not get out of your vehicle. If possible, try to write down a description of the person, their vehicle and their license plate as soon as it is safe to do so.
The case is being investigated by officers from the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP Detachment, including investigators from Crime Unit.
If you witnessed this traffic stop or have any further information about this incident contact the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or (613) 735-0188.
