AUGUSTA, Ga. – The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division has apprehended 22-year-old Mason Marsh, charging him with Impersonating a Police Officer and False Imprisonment.

Authorities report that these charges are linked to an incident reported to them on October 10th.

Investigations uncovered that Marsh executed a traffic stop on a woman by using blue and red lights affixed to his light gray Hyundai Santa Cruz.

During the encounter, Marsh falsely claimed to be a police officer, accusing the driver of cutting him off in traffic. When the woman requested to see his badge, Marsh was unable to present one.

The victim then informed Marsh of her intention to contact the real police, prompting him to retreat to his vehicle. Before departing, he ominously mentioned having her address.

Marsh is now charged with two felony offenses.

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office reminds the public: If you are ever being stopped by an unmarked vehicle and believe something is not right, slow down, activate your hazard lights, and drive to a well-lit, populated area such as a gas station.

You may also call 911 to confirm that the person stopping you is a legitimate law enforcement officer.

In most legitimate traffic stops, officers will be in fully marked patrol vehicles with lights, sirens, and uniforms. Situations involving unmarked units are rare and generally occur only when officers are responding to serious, active incidents.

The agency says this type of behavior is a serious crime that undermines public trust and the integrity of law enforcement.

If anyone else has been stopped, detained, or approached by Mason Marsh claiming to be a law enforcement officer, please contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at 706-821-1020.