How to Verify the Identity of a Police Officer

At one time, police officers were the most trusted people in the United States because they stood for protection and security. These days, however, Americans are wary of anyone with a badge, and the rise in police impersonators has not quelled our fear. It is important that everyone be able to verify the identity of a police officer, especially when you're alone in a dark or abandoned area with no one to help you.

Ask for Badges

If a police officer shows up at your home or pulls you over for speeding, ask to see his badge before you talk to him. You have every right to leave your front door closed or your car window rolled up until the officer produces identification. Police impersonators sometimes carry fake badges, but if you examine it closely, you should be able to identify a fake. For future reference, ask a legitimate officer to show you his badge so you'll know what to look for.

Examine the Uniform

There are plenty of ways in which a police impersonator can get a fake uniform from a costume store. In fact, there have been many police supply stores that have been closed down for selling equipment to non-officers. However, this is a good way to verify the identity of a police officer if you know what it should look like. For example, a legitimate officer will wear a specific uniform to his jurisdiction. Check out the uniforms for two different counties, and you'll see the differences immediately. A generic uniform isn't going to be a real officer.

Check Out the Car

If you've been pulled over on a dark, deserted street, it is never a good idea to actually stop. Better to slow down, put on your hazards, and drive to the nearest lighted area or police station. A police impersonator might have lights and sirens on his car, but you can look for other tells on the vehicle. For example, is the jurisdiction printed on the car, and is it the right color? Are the light bars fixed to the vehicle, or are they removable? If you can't verify the identity of the officer from the car, don't stop.

Watch Demeanor and Behavior