Criminals impersonate police to exploit people’s trust, veteran officer warns: how to protect yourself

Law enforcement officials are addressing mounting concerns after a series of troubling cases involving criminals impersonating police officers have surfaced, raising alarms about public safety and trust in genuine authority. 

Ken Alexandrow, a retired Nashville Metropolitan police officer and self-defense trainer, told Fox News Digital that these offenders are using fake badges, uniforms, and even outfitted vehicles with strobe lights purchased online to rob, assault, and extort unsuspecting victims.

He warned that although the incidents are relatively isolated, they are deeply damaging to public trust.

“They see a uniform and immediately associate it with law enforcement,” Alexandrow explained. “People don’t stop to read the badge. They see authority, and they comply.”

Though cases are not widespread, Alexandrow said the crimes strike at the heart of public safety and worsen already fragile relationships between law enforcement and communities. 

“This doesn’t help, that’s for sure. Makes it more difficult (to build trust),” he acknowledged.

And for those who carry out these schemes, Alexandrow had a blunt warning: “They’re just making our job that much more difficult. Look out when they get caught.”

Stepheny Price covers crime, including missing persons, homicides, and migrant crime. Story tips: stepheny.price@fox.com.