A man who allegedly pulled another driver over while impersonating a police officer was arrested after a Suffolk County police officer on patrol came upon the scene over the weekend, authorities said.
Thomas O’Connor was driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee with red and white flashing lights on the dashboard that he used to stop another vehicle on Coram-Mt. Sinai Road in his hometown of Coram at 8:27 p.m. Saturday, police said.
The 42-year-old was wearing a black shirt with the words “Police K9 Unit” in white letters, a gold Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms shield on a chain around his neck and a police belt equipped with a black pellet gun, flashlight, handcuffs and a police scanner, authorities said.
The officer who allegedly caught O’Connor in the act charged him with criminal impersonation, unauthorized use of colored lights on a vehicle and unauthorized use of a police receiver.
During his initial court appearance Sunday, bail for O’Connor was set at $5,000 cash or $30,000 bond.
Sixth Precinct Crime Control Unit officers are continuing the investigation and ask anyone who has had a similar encounter to call them at 631-854-8627 or 854-8600.
O’Connor’s SUV had New York license plate No. CMF7669.
