CAMP COUNTY, Texas—A 27-year-old man has been arrested and charged with impersonating a public servant after allegedly attempting to make a traffic stop with a vehicle equipped with police-like equipment.
Ira Lance Allen, 27, was arrested on August 19. According to Sheriff John Cortelyou, the incident occurred just after 9 p.m., when Allen activated red and white lights on his vehicle and followed another car from Highway 271 onto County Road 1240.
The driver of the pursued vehicle became suspicious and continued to his home, where he notified law enforcement. By the time he reported the incident, Allen had stopped following him. Deputy Dustin Swann responded, located Allen's vehicle, and made contact. Deputies Samantha Sellers and Investigator Randy Huggins also responded to the scene.
Allen was arrested without incident, and his bond was set at $20,000.
"We were aware this individual had a vehicle that was equipped with lights, push bumpers, siren and most of the equipment found in a law enforcement officer’s vehicle, but as far as we know, up until this time he had not attempted to impersonate an officer," Sheriff Cortelyou said.
The sheriff also advised the public that if they are ever unsure who is trying to stop them, they should turn on their flashers and proceed to a well-lit area before stopping.
