Police searching for man impersonating an officer

The Columbia Police Department said in a statement Saturday that it has received reports of “people impersonating police officers.”

One driver was pulled over by someone impersonating an officer Saturday evening, according to the statement.

Police say the impersonator is described “as a white male, approximately 5’10” to 6 feet tall with short dark hair and a salt and pepper full beard. He was wearing a dark-colored uniform with a badge and duty belt and black square rimmed glasses. He was reported to be driving a dark-colored, full-size SUV with a yellow and red light bar and no other markings on the vehicle.”

Police advise drivers that if it is not clear whether or not they are being pulled over by an officer, they may continue to drive until they find a safe location to pull over.

Drivers are then advised to turn on their hazard lights and call 911 to report their suspicions.