Fake Cop Caught After Pulling Over Woman with LED Light
On May 6 last year, Chris Green, 32, from Peterborough, tried to pull over a woman in Corsham using a blue LED light he stuck on his car windscreen. But Green wasn’t a real copper – he was impersonating one.
Claimed Undercover Officer, Then Bolted
Green told the woman he was an undercover police officer, questioning her driving. When he noticed her son was in the car, he quickly bailed from the scene. The victim, worried about the suspicious stop, immediately called Wiltshire Police.
Swift Arrest After Police Track Him Down
Wiltshire Police traced Green fast. Upon arresting him, officers seized a LED lightbar, handcuffs, and even a baseball bat from his vehicle. Green later admitted to impersonating a police officer.
Today at Swindon Magistrates’ Court, he was handed a six-month jail term, suspended for two years, plus £620 in costs and a £154 surcharge.
Police Warn Public: Verify Officers Before Complying
“This was a very worrying incident for the victim, who trusted she was stopped by a genuine police officer,” said Detective Inspector Matt Smith.
“Luckily, Green left before things escalated, and the quick-thinking victim called us immediately, helping us catch him fast.”
“We understand how unsettling this is, especially for women. If you’re ever unsure whether someone is a real officer, don’t hesitate to call 101 or 999 in an emergency,” Smith added.
“Officers will always understand if you ask to verify their identity with our control room.”
“If you think you’ve been targeted by a fake cop, please call 101 right away.”
Wiltshire Police Offer Simple ID Checks
Wiltshire Police have a straightforward verification system the public can use to confirm if an officer is genuine and on duty. Officers may also offer to put their radio calls on loudspeaker for control room confirmation, especially when dealing with vulnerable individuals.
You can also request this safety check yourself if you feel uneasy.
For more info, visit Wiltshire Police’s website and look up “How to check an officer’s identity.”
