The law says that when the police put on their lights and sirens behind you, you have to pull over. If you try and evade the police in a properly marked car, exhibiting lights and sirens, and driven by a uniformed officer, you may be charged with a misdemeanor evading an officer. But what are you supposed to do when the cop car isn't a real cop car? Drivers in Livermore should be on the look out for a suspicious vehicle posing as a police vehicle.
In late June, an employee at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory was leaving work when something caught her eye. In her rearview mirror, the employee noticed a white SUV following. In blue lettering, the vehicle was labeled “Livermore Police.” She said the white Chevy Tahoe or Chevy Suburban followed her into Tracy, and through a number of neighborhood streets until she pulled into a driveway. The vehicle then continued on its way.
After the SUV drove away, the woman noticed it did not have a Livermore Police Department decal, vehicle number, or a police antenna. Finding the incident suspicious, she reported it to the police. The driver was reportedly a white male, with dark hair, dark clothing, wearing sunglasses.
After the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory posted flyers about the suspicious event, another employee reported seeing the same white SUV driving on Vasco Road and I-580, but was not followed by the fake police car.
The Livermore police are letting people know what to look for in an official vehicle. They confirmed that their department uses Black Ford Explorers with white doors. They also display the Livermore Police Department insignia and vehicle numbers. According to their Facebook page, the LPD is actively investigating the suspicious occurrence.
The police department asks that if you see the white SUV labelled as Livermore Police, or if you are being followed by the suspicious vehicle to call 911, or contact them at 925-371-4987. They recommend navigating to a police or fire station or hospital, or to go to a crowded location before pulling over. False impersonation of a law enforcement officer is a crime under the California Penal Code. The penalties for a felony charge of false impersonation could include up to three years in county jail, and up to $10,000 in fines.
If you were are pulled over for any reason in Livermore, or anywhere in the East Bay, remember that even legitimate police officers can make mistakes when it comes to an arrest. When the police don't follow the law, or don't give you the fair treatment you deserve, you should not have to pay the price with a criminal conviction. At the Gorelick Law Offices, DUI defense attorney Lynn Gorelick has dedicated her professional legal career to defending people facing DUI or other criminal charges in the East Bay. With more than 30 years of experience, Lynn Gorelick understands the local Alameda and Contra Costa County DUI and criminal laws, and will make sure you get the justice you deserve. Contact a local East Bay DUI defense attorney who will fight for your rights, to keep you out of jail.
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