Man suspected of impersonating cop in Lancaster

LANCASTER, Calif. (KABC) -- Authorities are searching for a man who is impersonating a police officer and making traffic stops in Lancaster.

A man, who is part of a citizen's community watch group and did not want to disclose his name, said he is concerned about the police impersonator. The suspect has attempted to pull over multiple people at a busy intersection near several schools within the last few weeks.

He said the man even attempted to pull over a driver on the 14 Freeway.

Within the last three days, he has witnessed a man in an unmarked car with mock patrol lights and a siren attempted to pull over a motorcyclist who ran stop sign.

The citizen watchman said he knew the patrol unit was fake because of the work he does with U.S. Forest Service personnel, who work directly with law enforcement.

"There was a guy in a white crown Vic 2005, 2007 with the spotlights, unmarked undercover unit with a siren that was less than 100 watts...it wasn't a normal siren that you would normally hear," the man said.

He tried to drive up to the fake patrol car, but the driver sped away before pulling over the motorcyclist.

California Highway Patrol Officer Paul Salazar said residents can always ask for an officer's badge number and full name if they have concerns during a stop. They can also refuse to pull over until they are in a safe place to do so.