HOUSTON – Every so often, you read headlines of crimes committed by individuals taking advantage of other people’s trust by posing as police officers.
Recommended Videos
In the last several weeks, we have had several violent home invasions around the Houston area where the suspects impersonated police officers.
There are ways to check and make sure the person you are interacting with is indeed a member of law enforcement.
At your home
One of the first things to remember is that if an officer responds to your home, they will knock and announce their presence and that they are law enforcement before you even come to the door. If this does not happen, this could be a potential warning sign.
Before you open the door, use your home’s camera system or the peephole on the door to communicate with them. Ask the officer why they are at your home, they should have no problem explaining the reason for their visit.
Also, pay attention to what the officer or officers are wearing. An officer will always wear a uniform, badge, name tag, and utility belt.
If you are still unsure, you can call the department’s dispatch line and confirm from them that the officer’s at the other side of your door are indeed with the agency and have been dispatched to your home.
In your car
If a vehicle is trying to pull you over, first make sure you are in a well-lit area that is in view of others.
Look at what type of vehicle is trying to pull you over. You should see the familiar red and blue lights and hear the siren.
If you are suspicious, call 911 and tell them what is happening. They should be able to confirm whether or not the person pulling you over is an officer or not.
If you are already communicating with the person, ask to see the person’s credentials, including the officer’s ID and badge.