What To Do If You’re Pulled Over By An Impostor: Hamden Police

HAMDEN, CT — In light of a recent incident in which a North Haven man was charged with impersonating a police officer, Hamden Police are advising residents of safety procedures they should take if they suspect “something is amiss during an encounter with police.”

Nicholas Ferrucci, 23, was arrested Nov. 18 after he was accused of following another vehicle around 1 a.m. and “tailgating and flashing high beams” at the other driver. Police said that Ferrucci followed the man to his home and identified himself as an off-duty police officer and said he would return after a brief verbal altercation ensued.

Ferrucci returned to the home dressed in a police uniform and told the victim he had spoken to his supervisor who instructed him to make an arrest, police said. Ferrucci then left the man’s residence after another verbal altercation.

Hamden Police share the following tips and safety procedures if something doesn’t seem right during an encounter with an officer:

• Marked police cruisers are easy to recognize, with exterior flashing lights and “Police” imprinted on the vehicle.
• If you are stopped by an unmarked police vehicle, the vehicle should be equipped with flashing, multi-colored lights. Stop in an area that is well-lit and where there is pedestrian traffic.
• Stay inside of your vehicle and lock your doors; do not exit your vehicle to speak with the officer.
• Look for a proper police uniform, with an affixed badge and patches, as well as a police radio.
• If the officer is dressed in plainclothes, look for a badge, police identification, and a radio.
• A real officer will not hesitate to show you his credentials. You may also request that a marked police cruiser respond.
• Ask the officer why you are being stopped.
• If you believe the officer may be an impersonator, ask where they are employed, and contact police headquarters for verification.

Image via Shutterstock

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