LAS VEGAS (FOX5) -
The investigation into Ryan Patrick Johns for allegedly impersonating a police officer serves as a reminder of what to look for when being pulled over by an undercover car.
First off, pull over in a well-lit area where other people are around.
"If you feel like something isn't right or suspicious, you can ask for the officer's name and badge number, in addition to what agency he works for," said Metro Officer Jose Hernandez. "In addition, while the officer is there, you can also request that he bring a marked unit with him. The officer can get on the radio and request a marked unit to come out. That would probably be the best thing to do."
If those requests aren't complied with, then call police to request a marked car.
"It's not as common as we may think for someone to equip a vehicle and go out and randomly pull over citizens," Hernandez said.
But getting the supplies is as easy as going on the internet.
Within seconds of searching Craigslist and eBay, we found light bars, dash lights and badges.
On Craigslist, we found a seller with proclaimed badges from Metro and the Nevada Highway Patrol for as cheap as $150.
So while the means are there, the likelihood of it happening is slim.
But it's best to be aware without interfering with an actual police officer.
"In most cases it's gonna be a police officer," Hernandez said.
Copyright 2012 KVVU (KVVU Broadcasting Corporation). All rights reserved.
