A man was arrested for attempting to conduct a fake traffic stop in Central Florida.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested the man for attempting to conduct a traffic stop on one of their own undercover vehicles.
A black Chevrolet Suburban activated red and blue emergency lights while following an undercover Sheriff’s vehicle on U.S. Highway 301 North in Thonotosassa near Tampa in Hillsborough County, appearing to attempt a traffic stop.
Deputies quickly intervened and conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. During the investigation, detectives recovered the illegal emergency light setup, an additional two-foot emergency light bar, and a firearm.
46-year-old Nadi Jabari was arrested and charged with: False Personation, Unlawful Use of Blue Light, and Possession of Firearm During Commission of a Felony.
“When someone falsely presents themselves as law enforcement, they threaten the trust that exists between deputies and the community we serve,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “This individual’s actions were dangerous, deliberate, and illegal. We will aggressively pursue anyone who attempts to impersonate a deputy and use that deception to intimidate or endanger others.”
Impersonating a law enforcement officer is a serious crime that puts innocent people at risk and undermines public trust. If you are ever uncertain whether a traffic stop is legitimate, drive to a well-lit public location and call 911.
