El Dorado County, California – The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office is seeking public assistance after a reported officer impersonation during a traffic stop raised safety concerns for drivers.
According to the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred February 3 between 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. near China Hill Road and Highway 49. A driver reported being pulled over by a black-and-white sports utility vehicle equipped with flashing red and blue dashboard lights.
Investigators say the driver believed the stop was lawful. However, a male subject allegedly approached the vehicle, demanded the driver exit, then reached inside through the window and attempted to remove the driver from the vehicle.
The driver was able to access and deploy bear spray, allowing them to escape safely without further incident, according to the sheriff’s office.
The person of interest is described as a white adult male, approximately 6 feet tall, in his 30s, with an unshaven appearance. No injuries were reported.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that while it operates unmarked vehicles, deputies are required under California law to be readily identifiable and must notify drivers of the reason for a stop. Unmarked vehicles used by law enforcement are equipped with legally compliant emergency lights and sirens, and deputies must be able to produce official credentials upon request.
Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has surveillance or dash camera footage from the area during the specified time to come forward. Tips can be directed to Detective Flores at 530-642-4710 or by email.
The incident may be of particular concern to commuters and nighttime drivers traveling Highway 49, a heavily used route in the area.
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