By KRWG News
Las Cruces – A report of a man entering a woman's home and portraying himself as a police officer is prompting Las Cruces Police to remind residents that they should verify the identification of anyone claiming to be a peace officer or detective.
The incident in question occurred April 24 at a residence on Rimrock Drive. A 26-year-old woman reported that she was frightened when a man entered her home and displayed what she believed was an authentic police badge. The police imposter allegedly told the woman that he was investigating an incident that had occurred in her home.
The imposter spoke with the woman for a few minutes and then left. The woman was not injured in any way and called 911 the next day to report the suspicious person.
The man was said to be Hispanic, weighed approximately 200 pounds and was wearing a dark blue "uniform" that resembled a police officer's. He was described as having black hair that was combed back, and he appeared to have some facial hair or was possibly unshaven. Las Cruces Police detectives are continuing to investigate the incident.
The Las Cruces Police Department wants to remind the public that it's well within their right to ask an officer or plainclothes detective for proof of their identity - a badge and picture ID card that verifies they work in law enforcement - prior to allowing them inside your home or discussing police matters.
If there is still a doubt as to the validity of the officer, it's acceptable to ask that a marked police unit be sent to your location. Residents also can call 911 to verify if an officer or detective has been dispatched to your location.
Anyone who suspects they're dealing with someone who is impersonating a peace officer should call 911 immediately.
Those who have information on the April 24 incident, or any other instance of someone impersonating a peace officer, are encouraged to call Las Cruces Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or send a tip via text message to LCTIPS (528477).