Fake cop lands four-and-a-half years for stealing from distressed woman
Conman pretends to be police officer to gain trust
Karl Hope, 31, from Adelaide Street, spotted a distressed woman sitting in her car outside her home on 23 December last year. Claiming to be a police officer concerned for her safety, he flashed a fake ID card that convinced her he was genuine. Hope then escorted her into her 1 to check she was okay, before leaving.
Returns next day and steals handbag
But the deceit didn’t end there. Hope came back the very next evening, again posing as a concerned officer. After he left, the woman realised her handbag had disappeared. She quickly cancelled her bank cards, but spotted a suspicious transaction at a local store.
Caught on CCTV and arrested
Police obtained CCTV footage from the store and, just five days later, an officer recognised Hope from the footage in the 1. He was arrested and charged with burglary and fraud.
Sentenced to prison for theft and impersonation
At Warwick Justice Centre on 1, Hope admitted the theft and was found guilty of impersonating a police officer. He was slammed with a four-and-a-half-year prison sentence.
“We want to make people feel safe in vulnerable situations and impersonating a police officer is a serious offence,” a spokesperson said.
“Our officers will readily provide reassurance to verify who they are if asked.”
“If you feel something isn’t right or are in danger, shout for help, flag down a car, or dial 999 immediately.”
