Staff Reports
CIRCLEVILLE – A man reportedly posing as a state trooper Tuesday night has prompted a warning from the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office.
According to Sheriff Robert Radcliff, an 18-year-old female was traveling northbound on U.S. Route 23 about 11:45 p.m. Tuesday when a newer model silver Dodge Charger approached her from behind.
The victim stated the driver of the Charger turned on blue and white lights, and when she pulled off to the side of the roadway south of the Pilot station at Pittsburgh Road, the vehicle pulled up behind her.
Radcliff said the victim reported a male got out dressed as a state trooper and acted like he was investigating a traffic infraction. He asked the female to exit her vehicle, and when she complied, he reportedly touched her inappropriately. The man then got back into his vehicle and left the victim where he had stopped her.
Radcliff said officers do not normally make traffic stops in unmarked vehicles, and residents should be wary of such an attempt. If traveling alone, Radcliff recommends calling 911 immediately to report the incident.
He also said if a plain clothes officer would attempt to stop a vehicle, they would be carrying proper identification. Residents should make sure to see the ID before unlocking their door.
Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity.
The case remains under investigation, he said, and anyone with information should contact the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office at 740-474-2176.
This article originally appeared on The Pickaway News Journal
