SUMTER COUNTY, FL – Authorities apprehended a man on Interstate 75, accused of impersonating a law enforcement officer. The suspect, identified as Anthony Lee Trip, a convicted sex offender, was allegedly using sirens to mimic police behavior, creating chaos on the highway.
Numerous 911 calls were made by concerned drivers witnessing the incident. One driver, Hunter Thomas, recounted seeing a red Dodge Ram weaving through traffic with flashing amber and white lights, while blaring sirens. Thomas described the vehicle as clearly not a police car, yet it forced other drivers to brake suddenly.
Thomas promptly reported the truck’s license plate to the Florida Highway Patrol. Officers quickly intercepted Trip, who denied possessing a siren box. However, upon inspection of the vehicle, evidence suggested otherwise. The Dodge Ram was also registered under Trip’s name in the sex offender registry.
Trip was charged with impersonating a law enforcement officer, a serious offense that could lead to a maximum of five years in prison if convicted. He was released on a $2,500 bond pending trial.
Former FHP trooper Jeff Lauder shared advice for motorists who suspect they’re being pulled over by someone impersonating an officer. He recommended activating hazard lights to acknowledge the presence of the vehicle behind and calling 911 to verify the legitimacy of the stop. Providing details such as the vehicle’s description and location can assist dispatchers in determining the validity of the encounter.
The incident has raised concerns about highway safety and the ease with which individuals can mimic law enforcement, potentially endangering the public.
Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to ensure road safety. The case against Trip continues as investigators gather more evidence.