Man sought for impersonating police officer: OPP

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has released a composite sketch of a man they say is wanted for impersonating a police officer.

A woman was driving on Naylor Side Rd. in Lakeshore, Ont. around 9 p.m. on Apr. 23 when she was pulled over by a vehicle with red and blue flashing lights.

A man approached the driver’s side window wearing clothing that resembled a police officer. He asked the driver questions relating to her “essential services status.”

OPP has confirmed the man was not a police officer.

He is described as being white, between 30 and 40 years of age, tall, fit, with short brown hair and a scruffy beard.

The man’s vehicle is described as a small, black and white older model, four-door vehicle similar to a Ford Taurus. It had an emergency light bar mounted to the roof with red and blue alternating lights.

OPP has recently reported similar incidents in the province.

Anyone who can assist with the identification of the man in the image is asked to call 519-723-2491 or 1-888-310-1122.

On Apr. 14, a driver in Wellington County was pulled over by a man who asked for proof the driver was an essential worker. Once the driver provided the information, the suspect returned to his vehicle and drove off.

OPP are reminding residents officers do not stop vehicles to inquire about the employment status of the driver or its occupants.