Austin, Texas man, Sean Michael Macdonald, is facing charges after allegedly impersonating a police officer, a stunt uncovered when photos surfaced of him in a cop’s uniform. The Austin Police Department (APD), who confirmed Macdonald is neither a current nor former member of their force, arrested him on January 22,
The investigation, according to the APD's release, began a week earlier on January 16, and has been primarily handled by their Aggravated Assault Unit. They were aided by the Violent Crimes Task Force in the case, the, search for individuals who may have been duped by Macdonald’s ruse. Photos of Macdonald decked out in the uniform were released along with the statement.
The residents of Austin are being urged by the APD to step forward if they've had any encounters with MacDonald masquerading as one of Austin’s Police. The police are seeking reports from anyone who interacted with the impersonator, whether he declared himself an officer or went as far as to perform police operations.
Those with relevant information can make their voices heard, anonymously if preferred, through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program. Tips can be submitted via the Crime Stoppers website or by calling their hotline. In their mission to protect the city, the Austin Police hope such community assistance will fill in the gaps of their ongoing investigation, Macdonald remains in custody as the case evolves.
