A 20-year-old man from Lethbridge has been charged with impersonating a police officer after he was found driving a vehicle that closely resembled a law enforcement cruiser. The incident occurred on Saturday when a Lethbridge police officer spotted a black Ford Explorer traveling along Mayor Magrath Drive South. The vehicle was equipped with a push bar, light bar, LED lights, and siren speakers, according to a news release issued by police on Tuesday.
Vehicle Details and Equipment
The SUV also featured antennas similar to those found on police vehicles and a rear sticker reading “Police Interceptor.” Upon approaching the driver, the officer noticed an ignition override switch on the dashboard and toggle bars mounted on the center console, which were capable of controlling the installed emergency equipment. Additionally, a search light was mounted on the driver’s side, and the rear passenger windows were blacked out with bars.
Previous Warning and Seizure
Police revealed that the driver had been pulled over previously, ticketed, and instructed to remove the equipment from the Explorer. However, the equipment remained, leading to the vehicle being seized and towed to the police compound. The driver, identified as Will Nicholas Waddell, 20, of Lethbridge, has been charged with personating a police officer.
Legal Context
In Canada, it is illegal to outfit a civilian vehicle with equipment such as red and blue lights, sirens, push bars, spotlights, and decals or markings containing “Police” or any official police crest that could cause the public to mistake it for an active police vehicle. Police emphasized that individuals who purchase decommissioned police vehicles must remove all decals, light bars, and specialized equipment before using them on public roads.
Court Appearance
Waddell is scheduled to make a court appearance on July 8 to face the charge. The Lethbridge Police Service continues to investigate the matter and reminds the public of the serious legal consequences associated with impersonating law enforcement officers.
