Big Horn sheriff warns of police impersonator

LOVELL (WNE) — The Big Horn County Sheriff’s Department is warning local residents of at least one individual impersonating a police officer on north Big Horn County roads. According to Sheriff Blackburn, a large SUV has been reported with the words “police” in big blue letters on the side of it. It is not a vehicle that belongs to any local enforcement agencies, Blackburn said.

“There are no large SUVs used within our sheriff department or our local police departments,” Ken Blackburn said.

Wyoming Highway Trooper Lee Pence said the SUV has an old lightbar, which it uses to pull over vehicles on the roadway.

Blackburn said all local law enforcement officers are clearly labeled with the exception of his White Ram truck, which most local residents will recognize.

According to Blackburn, the driver of the SUV is running a scam where he will issue a false citation and then demand payment immediately from the individual he’s pulled over.

In no case will an officer demand immediate payment, Blackburn said.

Three victims of the fake police vehicle have been identified since the beginning of the week. Two victims were reported in Montana, and another victim was reported as being pulled over between Frannie and Deaver.

The victim pulled over between Frannie and Deaver was not a local resident, Blackburn said.

“If one does not recognize the officer, or doubts the legitimacy of law enforcement, they are encouraged to call 911,” Blackburn said.

According to Blackburn, the case is still under investigation.

“We encourage anyone who has information to call and inform us,” Blackburn said.