Police arrest man accused of impersonating first responder, trying to pull over officer
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Pittsburgh police arrested a man they said was impersonating a first responder in Oakland late on Tuesday night.
According to court documents, Patrick Barton pulled up behind an off-duty police sergeant with emergency lights flashing. He then claimed he was the assistant fire chief for Avalon, but he was not responding to an active scene.
Barton is now facing charges including impersonating a public servant. Court records showed he is also facing theft and receiving stolen property charges in Ross Township.
Bethel Park Police Chief Timothy O'Connor pointed out ways to spot someone impersonating a police officer.
"The first thing you want to see behind you is the red and blues flashing lights and that would be a telltale sign," he said.
He said if stopped, you have the right to ask questions, like the officer's name, agency and badge number.
"Most badges have the municipality or town, whoever the officer is employed stamped on the back of the badge. It's not a generic-looking badge," O'Connor said.
If you think you are in danger or possibly stopped by an imposter, O'Connor said to immediately call 911.