Authorities warn of police impersonator in Chester County

UPPER OXFORD TWP., Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- Authorities in Chester County are warning the public of a police impersonator after a driver was pulled over.

It happened around 6:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 13 on U.S. Route 1 in the area of Route 896 in Upper Oxford Township.

According to Pennsylvania State Police, the victim reported being tailgated by a black Cadillac Escalade for several miles.

The driver of the Escalade then activated a red and blue 'bubble light' and a siren, the victim told police.

The suspect was described to be a heavy-set male, approximately 6'2" tall, 40-50 years old, with black hair and a tan complexion. He was also reportedly wearing a police-style uniform with a badge.

Residents in the area told Action News this incident had them on high alert.

"Getting pulled over by a black SUV with tinted windows? You think it's a cop," noted Lynn Perkins from Landenberg.

Many also said it was a troubling crime.

"Very disturbing that's going on here, especially in this area," said Pam Long from West Grove. "You just don't know what to do because what if you don't pull over and it's a cop?"

Rich Vona, Bucks County's director of law enforcement and safety, advised people that if they're worried they're being pulled over by an impersonator, they don't need to stop right away.

"Drive at a slow speed to someplace that is occupied -- 7-Eleven, Wawa. Someplace where there's a lot of people. That's where you want to be," he explained.

You can also ask the officer for a photo ID. Vona added that another tip you can use is to call 911 and ask the operator to confirm the officer's identity.

"They can narrow that down, and they can tell you and they can call the officer and let you know that yes, in fact, that is an on-duty officer who is attempting to stop you," he explained.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Troop J, Avondale Station, Criminal Investigation Unit at 610-268-2022.