Phoenix police warn of sheriff's deputy imposter

PHOENIX - Police have a warning for the public after a woman was pulled over by a man who claimed to be a sheriff's deputy.

Phoenix police say the 41-year-old victim was traveling on Grand Avenue in central Phoenix around 8 a.m. early last month when she saw a 90s model Crown Victoria with red and blue dome-type dashboard lights flashing from her rearview mirror.

She continued to drive until she found a safe place and pulled over.

The male suspect approached the victim in her car and police say that even though he was wearing a tan "Polo" shirt and khaki pants, the suspect had no visible badge.

The suspect told the woman he was a sheriff's deputy and appeared angry. He reportedly scolded the victim about her bad driving and for not pulling over fast enough.

The victim was ordered out of her vehicle and asked for identification.

The suspect placed the victim in handcuffs and ordered her to the rear of the vehicle. He told her he was going to do a background check on her and returned, telling the victim he was giving her a "warning" and that she had warrants.

The suspect then released the victim.

The victim reported the suspicious traffic stop to Phoenix police who released a composite sketch of the suspect.

"To be that bold scares us," said Phoenix Police Officer James Holmes.

Would you know how to spot a fake officer? Check out how ABC15's Christopher Sign was able to score a fake deputy's uniform good enough to draw concern from Sheriff Joe Arpaio.

The suspect is described as a white male in his mid-40s, 5 feet 11 inches tall, 220 pounds, with short brown hair, a thick mustache, medium to light complexion, wearing a tan "Polo" shirt and khaki dress pants.

Anyone with information about the suspect and his actions is asked to call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS.

Officials make note that this incident happened in daylight hours and advise citizens that if they are stopped by law enforcement and are concerned about the stop, to call 911 and give the operator your location and situation. That if a police officer is pulling you over his or her dispatcher will be aware of the officer's action and location.

Also, you should make every attempt to pull into a safe, well-lighted and occupied parking area.