Police Impersonators A Problem In South Florida

Today's Sun Sentinel reports on how police impersonation is becoming a problem in South Florida. The article discusses just how easy it is for somebody to purchase fake police equipment online, such as badges, belts, hats, and police lights.

South Florida has led the state in police impersonation since 2009.

For example, earlier this year, a man wearing a knit mask and a black shirt that read "Police" rushed into an Oakland Park home and terrorized a man lying in bed, the Broward Sheriff's Office said. The fake officer was after oxycodone pills.

Deputies later arrested the fake officer. He was charged with armed robbery, armed burglary with a battery, and impersonating a law enforcement officer.

Impersonating an officer is a 3rd-degree felony in the State of Florida. Conviction is punishable by up to five years in prison.

Eric Matheny is a criminal defense attorney serving Miami-Dade and Broward. Call today to discuss your case.