MD Man Tried To Pull Over MoCo Officer During Traffic Stop: Police

SILVER SPRING, MD — Melvin Andrew Pinkney, Jr., a 42-year-old man from California, Maryland, was arrested after police say he tried to pull over an officer in Silver Spring.

Court records show Pinkney is facing one count of impersonating a police officer, a misdemeanor charge that carries a two-year prison sentence or a fine of up to $2,000 if convicted.

The incident at the center of the case took place Monday around 12:15 p.m., as a Montgomery County Police officer was working in an unmarked cruiser in downtown Silver Spring.

A release issued by the department said Pinkney was driving a Ford Taurus when he approached the police cruiser and activated emergency lights before stepping out to conduct a traffic stop.

It was when the officer turned on the cruiser's emergency equipment that Pinkney, who was wearing a holster, returned to his car.

When confronted by the officer, Pinkney said he was a retired D.C. officer and that he was working security at a restaurant in the area. He had also indicated that he was an active-duty deputy sheriff with the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office.

Officials with both departments told The Banner that Pinkney hadn't worked for them.

While a valid concealed carry permit was provided, no law enforcement credentials were provided at the scene.

Authorities later determined Pinkney's use of emergency red and blue lights was illegal since his vehicle was privately owned and not an authorized law enforcement cruiser.

After being processed, Pinkney was released on a $5,000 unsecured personal bond, court records show. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 30.

Investigators are asking anyone who may have been stopped by Pinkney to contact detectives by visiting the Crime Solvers of Montgomery County website and submitting a tip online. Residents can also file tips by calling 1-866-411-8477.