On April 24, 2020, Oxford County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) received a complaint concerning an individual impersonating a police officer and stopping people to check their “essential worker” status amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

A driver reported she was stopped by an individual on Braemar Sideroad and Highway 59 near Tavistock during the first week of April, The suspect, who was wearing clothing resembling a police uniform, asked the driver about her essential worker status. The driver provided the information and the suspect left the scene.

The suspect vehicle is described as a dark-coloured sport utility vehicle equipped with a light bar with flashing red and blue lights.

Motorists who suspect they have been pulled over or confronted by a police impersonator should immediately call 911 to contact police. 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.

Any individual convicted of the offence of personating a peace officer could be subject to imprisonment for a term of not more than five years; or, upon summary conviction, a maximum incarceration penalty of two years less a day and/or a $5,000 fine.

Anyone with information regarding this or any incident is asked to call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or www.oxfordcrimestoppers.com, where you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2000.

“The OPP do not stop motor vehicles to inquire about the employment status of the driver or its occupants. Drivers should also know that they are not required to prove they are an essential worker to police.” – Inspector Anthony Hymers-OPP Oxford County Detachment Commander.

Filed under: covid 19, norfolk, opp, oxford county