Imagine you’re driving down a quiet road in Camden County when you see flashing lights behind you. Your immediate instinct is to pull over, as anyone would when being signaled by the police.
But what if the individuals behind those flashing lights aren’t actually police officers? It’s a terrifying thought, but unfortunately, it’s become a reality in recent incidents.
The Impersonation Incidents
Authorities in Camden County are currently investigating several unsettling cases where individuals have impersonated police officers. These impersonators have approached innocent people at least twice, with one incident involving a handgun, according to local police.
These troubling encounters have occurred in Winslow Township and Lindenwold, with each incident featuring two suspects who falsely represent themselves as law enforcement officers. To protect yourself and others, it’s crucial to understand what’s been happening and how to respond if you ever find yourself in a similar situation.
What You Need to Know
Here’s a breakdown of the incidents and the steps you should take if you suspect someone attempting to pull you over isn’t a legitimate police officer:
Winslow Township Incident (September 28): At around 4:45 a.m., two males tried to stop a vehicle on Waterford Road and Route 73 in Winslow Township. The suspects approached the driver while wearing badges around their necks, claiming the driver had a headlight out and was a robbery suspect. They requested to search the vehicle. The driver wisely felt uncomfortable and asked for a marked unit to arrive. The suspects then left the area.
- Suspect Vehicle: Maroon, four-door sedan with police lights.
- Suspect No. 1: A black man with a light complexion, approximately 60 years old, short black hair, and patchy facial hair. He was wearing a Carhartt-style jacket.
- Suspect No. 2: A male with no further description available for this incident.
Lindenwold Incident (September 30): Around 9:45 p.m., Lindenwold police responded to a report of potential cop impersonators on the 700 block of E Elm Avenue. Two victims reported that two male suspects approached them, dressed like plain-clothes officers. The suspects conducted a search and stole money from the victims. When confronted, one of the suspects displayed a small handgun. The suspects fled the scene in a four-door sedan with a Pennsylvania license plate.
- Suspect Vehicle: Red, four-door Ford sedan with a Pennsylvania license plate and an emergency light affixed to the roof.
- Suspect No. 1: A taller white male with short hair or balding, last seen wearing black socks, gray pants, a black, long-sleeve jacket, and possibly glasses. He had a gold badge on a neck chain.
- Suspect No. 2: A white male with brown hair, last seen wearing khaki pants, tan work boots, a black baseball cap worn backwards, and a dark, long-sleeve shirt. He also had a gold badge on a neck chain.
Protecting Yourself
If you ever find yourself in a situation where you doubt the legitimacy of a vehicle attempting to pull you over, here’s what you should do:
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Slow Down and Activate Hazards: Reduce your speed and turn on your hazard lights.
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Drive to a Well-Lit Area: If possible, head to a well-lit, populated area.
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Call 911: Immediately dial 911 to confirm whether the vehicle behind you is a legitimate police officer.
Remember, your safety is paramount. These incidents are rare but concerning, so it’s essential to be prepared and vigilant when you’re on the road. Always prioritize your well-being and take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety during traffic stops.
