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Suspected police impersonator arrested after pulling over deputy

Investigators are seeking more information after Jose Flores Ortiz pulled over an off-duty deputy on I-76, Brighton Police Department said.

BRIGHTON, Colo. — Brighton Police Department is seeking more information on a possible police impersonator that attempted to stop an off-duty Adams County Sheriff's Office deputy on Saturday.

Officers responded around 3:15 p.m. to a report of a police impersonator on I-76 between Bridge Street and Bromley Lane.

The off-duty deputy said he was driving his personal car when the vehicle pictured below attempted to stop the deputy by activating blue and red lights, police said. 

The driver, later identified as 37-year-old Jose Roberto Flores Ortiz of Commerce City, then started break-checking the off-duty officer and forced him to the side of the road, according to police.

Credit: Brighton Police Department


Flores Ortiz exited the vehicle wearing a shirt that said "security" and approached the officer with a silver badge in his hand, police said.

Responding officers discovered Flores Ortiz was under the influence of alcohol with guns inside his vehicle, according to the arrest report.

He was charged with the following counts on Thursday, the 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office said:

  • Impersonating a peace officer
  • Illegal possession of blue or red lights
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol
  • Illegal possession or consumption of alcohol in motor vehicle
  • Reckless driving
  • Prohibited use of a weapon

Anyone who may have come into contact with the suspect is asked to contact Brighton Police Department at 303-288-1535 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

"As a reminder, official law enforcement vehicles come in many different sizes and shapes," police said. "If you ever have a question about an unmarked vehicle pulling you over, please put your hazards on, continue at a safe speed, and call 9-1-1 to confirm the identity of the vehicle."

Credit: Brighton Police Department


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