FRANKLIN COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - The Franklin County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about people posing as Florida troopers in the Big Bend area.
Sheriff A.J. 'Tony' Smith took to Facebook Monday to spread the word:
According to FCSO, a resident was stopped Sunday night by three unmarked vehicles, a black Ford Taurus, a black Chevrolet Tahoe, and a black Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Z71 between Sopchoppy and the Franklin County line on U.S. 319.
The suspects told the resident that they were affiliated with the Florida Highway Patrol and one even had a bull dog in their car. Deputies say the suspects were uniformed, had shoulder patches and a cap that said 'FHP'.
The sheriff says the individuals handcuffed the resident and put him in the back of their car before releasing him. The resident was not issued a citation nor was arrested.
Deputies have been unable to identify those suspects as being associated with law enforcement in any capacity, so they're reminding citizens to be on the lookout.
They say that if you are stopped by someone claiming to be law enforcement in an unmarked vehicle and you're not sure if they're legit, drive to a well lit, safe area and ask for their credentials and/or supervisor.
Do not get out of your car, and if necessary, call the area sheriff's office. Deputies will be able to identify them if they are indeed law enforcement officers.
If any resident has anything similar happen to them, the Franklin County Sheriff's Office is asking that you call them at (850) 670-8500 or the Wakulla County Sheriff's Office at (850) 745-7100 if it happens within their jurisdiction.
