Man Arrested for Operating Fake Police Car After Being Pulled Over

Fake Police Car Operation

• 🚨 A man, James Pearson, was arrested for operating a vehicle that closely resembled a police car, complete with a light bar, spotlight, and "Santa Rosa Beach Police" markings.
• ⚠️ The vehicle was identified as a Ford Explorer, modified to look like an official police vehicle, which led to an arrest warrant being issued.

Initial Encounter and Warning

• 🚓 Deputies initially encountered the vehicle on May 7th and noted its strong resemblance to a police car, with "Santa Rosa Beach Police" clearly visible.
• ✉️ The driver, James Pearson, was informed that his vehicle was too similar to an official police car and was issued a warning letter to remove the markings.
• 🛠️ Pearson claimed he was building an emergency management van and intended to showcase his capabilities to the authorities.

Continued Operation and Arrest

• 🚫 Despite the warning, Pearson continued to drive the marked vehicle, leading to his detention on May 10th.
• 🚗 The vehicle was found to contain a shotgun and ammunition, which were secured as evidence.
• ❓ Pearson stated he was a businessman selling police supplies and was trying to get business from the local law enforcement, not impersonating an officer.

Charges and Vehicle Features

• ⚖️ Pearson was charged with misdemeanor operating with intent to mislead an official agency vehicle.
• 💡 The investigation revealed the vehicle had a radar unit, a radio, a computer, a light bar, emergency lights, and a spotlight, making it nearly indistinguishable from a real patrol unit.
• 💰 He was released on a $25,000 bond, with his court case ongoing.

Business Background

• 💼 Pearson has a history of operating a police supply business and has previously sold weapons and gear to law enforcement.
• 🗣️ He expressed confusion as to why his business operations, which he had previously shown to deputies, were now leading to an arrest.