Fake Cops Stop Woman in Silver Spring
December 28, 2007 - 8:31am
Darci Marchese, WTOP Radio
WASHINGTON - Police in Montgomery County are warning residents about two fake cops.
A 39-year-old woman reported to police that just before 1 a.m. on Dec. 21 she was pulled over by what looked like a police car with red and blue lights flashing. At the same time, another a white car that looked like a police car was coming down the road in the opposite direction. It made a U-turn and stopped behind her.
Police say a man wearing what appeared to be a police uniform approached the driver's side window, told the woman had been speeding and asked for her driver's license. As she talked to the officer, another man dressed in similar clothing, motioned for her to roll down her passenger side window. She did and her purse was stolen.
The two men drove off in their respective cars.
Police say the suspects are both white men between 20 and 25. One was 6-feet tall and about 170 pounds. He was wearing a blue uniform and driving a white police-style vehicle with a light-bar attached to the top. The second man was about 5-foot-8 and 200 pounds, wearing a blue uniform. He also was driving a white police-style vehicle with a light bar attached to the top.
If you know anything about this crime, call the police at 301-565-5835.
In light of this incident, police are offering the following tips so you don't become a victim:
* If an officer initiates a traffic stop, particularly one in street clothes or a questionable-looking vehicle, continue to drive to a well-lighted, open area before stopping. Police say you should turn on your flashers and drive slowly.
* All officers carry photo identification with their badges. They are required to display them if asked. You can ask for ID and should since anyone can purchase a new or used badge off the Internet, police say.
* Do not be afraid to have the officer hold up the ID card. Officers can't let you hold their cards, but you can take the time to read the ID and look for the agency name, picture of the officer, and rank.
* Police say you shouldn't be afraid to tell the officer you plan to dispatch and verify the officer's identity.