EL DORADO COUNTY — The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help as detectives investigate an incident in which a driver was confronted by a man believed to be impersonating a law enforcement officer during what appeared to be a traffic stop near Highway 49.
The incident occurred Feb. 3, between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. in the area of China Hill Road and Highway 49. Investigators said the driver was pulled over by a black-and-white sport utility vehicle displaying flashing red and blue lights on the dashboard, leading the driver to believe the stop was legitimate.
Authorities said a male subject approached the vehicle, ordered the driver to exit, and then reached through the window in an apparent attempt to pull the driver from the vehicle. The driver was able to deploy bear spray and escape to a safe location without further incident.
The person of interest is described as a white adult male, approximately 6 feet tall, in his 30s, and unshaven. No injuries were reported. The sheriff’s office has not said whether the suspect or vehicle has been identified.
In a statement addressing public concerns, the sheriff’s office clarified how legitimate traffic stops are conducted, noting:
“Our deputies will always be readily identifiable or be able to produce law enforcement credentials, and per California law must notify the driver of the vehicle the reason for the stop.”
Officials noted that while the agency does operate unmarked vehicles, those vehicles are equipped with emergency lights and sirens in accordance with California law.
Residents are urged to remain alert, particularly when driving at night or in rural areas. Anyone who feels uncertain about the legitimacy of a traffic stop is encouraged to call 911 to verify the stop and, when possible, proceed to a well-lit or populated area while remaining in their vehicle.
Detectives are asking for any information that may assist the investigation, including dash camera video, home or business surveillance footage, or eyewitness accounts from the area during the time of the incident.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Flores at 530-642-4710 or by email atFloresd@eldoradosheriff.gov.
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