Fake police officer sought in Petaluma

The impersonator stopped a driver and obtained his driver’s license and Social Security number.|

Petaluma police are seeking a man they say impersonated a police officer and obtained a driver’s personal information during a fake traffic stop earlier this month.

The impersonator, a man in his mid-20s wearing dark clothing and riding a bicycle, also sought payment of a “fine,” but the male driver didn’t pay it, police said Saturday in a press release.

The driver was stopped about 4 p.m. Jan 13 on Petaluma Boulevard North at B Street. The impersonator told the driver the vehicle’s headlights were malfunctioning and asked to see his driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance. After looking those over, he gave the driver a clipboard with a form that asked for a Social Security number, which the driver provided.

However, the driver didn’t pay the requested fine, even though the false police officer said the amount would soon double without payment.

The driver didn’t see any badge, patches or other gear for a police officer.

Petaluma police do have a bicycle unit, but the officers wear uniforms with shoulder patches and badges. Also, officers don’t request or accept payment of fines at traffic stops, the release stated.

Anyone who has encountered the suspect or has more information on the matter is asked to call Officer Joel Auerbach at (707) 778-4372.

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