How to tell if a police officer is legit

Authorities in the Twin Falls area are looking for a police impersonator encountered by three women. Idaho police agencies are giving tips on how to tell if the officer pulling you over is legitimate.

Idaho State Police said if you are suspicious, you are allowed to ask for a trooper’s credentials. Troopers should be able to show their badge as well as picture identification.

ISP Lt. Chris Weadick said Wednesday you should stop if you see the flashing lights, but there are ways to be safe about it.

“If you get stopped by an unmarked vehicle and it seems to be suspicious to you, continue to a well lit area maybe even a public area where there’s a lot of traffic and people around,” he said. “If it seems to be suspicious even deeper than that because the person won’t identify themselves or they don’t look to be a police officer, call 911. Talk to a dispatcher and try to get to the bottom of whose out there talking to you.”

Weadick said ISP does not have any truly unmarked vehicles.

In Idaho Falls, police said Thursday they had not gotten reports of anyone impersonating them, but people should keep several things in mind.

The city does have officers who do not wear uniforms and drive unmarked vehicles, though all police vehicles have red and blue lights either mounted on top or inside above the dashboard.

Idaho Falls Police Department officers should be able to show you their credentials as well.

IFPD also said you should verify if you are suspicious — roll up your window, lock your doors and call 911. If you feel your life is in danger, drive away at the speed limit to a well-lit public area.