Three men learned the hard way this weekend that Beverly Hills police do not appreciate DIY traffic enforcement. Officers arrested the trio after, police say, the men posed as motorcycle cops and helped drivers snake through heavy traffic. The quick succession of arrests over less than 24 hours has triggered an investigation into whether the riders used fake markings or gear to pass themselves off as the real deal.
According to NBC Los Angeles, the first arrest came Saturday after a caller reported a possible impersonator directing traffic. One man was arrested on suspicion of misrepresenting himself as a peace officer. Police told NBC4 Investigates the suspect allegedly posed as a motorcycle officer to escort drivers, including owners of exotic cars, through congested intersections.
What the Law Says
California law is not exactly friendly to would-be pretend cops. Knowingly giving false identification to a peace officer or misrepresenting oneself during a lawful detention can be charged as a crime. Under Penal Code section 148.9, providing false information to an officer is a misdemeanor, and prosecutors will decide whether to file charges in these Beverly Hills cases.
Police Investigation
The arrests did not stop with Saturday’s incident. On Sunday, Beverly Hills police responded to reports of motorcycles driving around the city and arrested two more men, law enforcement sources told NBC4 Investigates. Authorities say the bikes looked like police motorcycles, but investigators determined the riders were not members of any law enforcement agency. The department says the probe is ongoing and that the cases will be forwarded to prosecutors for consideration.
How to Respond
If someone claiming to be an officer pulls you over and something feels off, officials say you should trust your instincts. Call 911 rather than following instructions that would take you to a secluded area. Try to note the vehicle’s license plate, make and model, and any identifying numbers or markings, then share those details with dispatch so detectives can confirm whether the person is a legitimate officer.
