The Upper Ottawa Valley OPP is investigating an incident in which someone impersonated a police officer.
Around 5:00pm Thursday afternoon (September 23, 2021), police say an individual was driving westbound on Highway 17 near McIssac Drive in the Bissett Creek area, when they noticed they were being followed by a black older vehicle.
The driver of the black vehicle activated police-style emergency blue lights and indicated the vehicle should pull over.
A male exited the older black car and approached the driver. He demanded to see the driver’s licence, insurance and registration. The male requested the victim to drive to another road. Then the male conducted a search of the vehicle and assaulted the victim. The driver did not sustain injuries and reported the suspicious encounter to police.
The male suspect is described as:
- Caucasian
- Approximately 35-40 years-of-age,
- About 5’8″ (173 cm) in height.
- Spoke clear English
- Wearing clothing that included an OPP shoulder patch
- Wearing a blue hat
The suspect vehicle is described as an unmarked older black sedan, equipped with emergency blue lights in the front grill.
Please Note:
Should you have questions about the authenticity of the traffic stop, citizens may ask to see an officer’s badge and warrant card.
Some officers and off-duty officers may not be wearing uniforms but they will be able to provide you with the name of their service, detachment, badge number, rank and produce a badge and warrant card without delay. A uniformed officer may be requested to attend the location should the need arise.
Motorists who suspect they have been pulled over or confronted by a police impersonator should lock their doors and immediately call 9-1-1. Do not get out of your vehicle. If possible, try to write down a description of the person, their vehicle and their license plate as soon as it is safe to do so.
If you witnessed this traffic stop or have any further information about this incident please contact Upper Ottawa Valley OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or (613) 735-0188.
Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Pembroke/Renfrew County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca
