The owner of a black Ford Explorer installed red and blue lights and a police radio, which made his vehicle look like a police car.
While it is not known yet if he acted like an officer and pulled people over, the police have asked people to report such incidents.
The offense came to light after a citizen reported it to the Indiana State Police Jasper Post, which later shared details on Facebook.
However, the motive behind the man fitting a police kit on his vehicle is not known.
The SUV Looks Like a Police Car, But Impersonation Has Been Ruled Out
According to the post by the police, a Jasper man was caught displaying the red and blue emergency lights after a tip-off. The police have urged citizens to contact them if they are stopped by a vehicle that may be displaying emergency lights unlawfully. The post read:
“Dubois County – On Tuesday, June 23, 2026, Trooper Kayla Denk-Mundy cited a Jasper man for Displaying Red and Blue Lights in a Vehicle and Possession of a Police Radio following an investigation initiated by a citizen tip.
“At this time, the Indiana State Police have not received any reports alleging the individual impersonated a law enforcement officer. However, the Indiana State Police Jasper District is reminding the public to remain vigilant and to contact authorities if they are stopped by a vehicle they believe may be unlawfully displaying emergency lights.”
The post then reveals different light colors associated with the respective emergency services for public information:
• Red/Blue: Law enforcement.
• Red/White: Fire/EMS vehicles.
• Blue: Authorized volunteer firefighter vehicles.
• Green: Authorized EMTs/paramedics.
• Amber: Utility, construction, and recovery vehicles.
The police confirmed that the vehicle stopped for displaying emergency lights and possessing a police radio was a “black 2016 Ford Explorer.”
“Anyone who believes they may have been stopped by this vehicle is encouraged to contact the Indiana State Police Jasper District at 812-482-1441,” the post added.
The image of the Ford Explorer in question also shows a license plate with “Sheriff” written on it, so it is not known whether this is a representative image for reference or whether the suspect also fitted his vehicle with a fake license plate.
What Does The Law Say?
According to a report by Justia, if a person falsely represents themselves as a public servant or law enforcement officer, it is considered a Class A misdemeanor and can result in a fine of up to $5,000 and up to one year in a county jail.
In addition, it can also be treated as a Level 6 felony, with penalties ranging from six months to 2.5 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
With the amount of information available in the Facebook post, it is not known whether the driver of the black Ford Explorer was arrested or charged in connection with the violation, or whether he faces trial.
However, the incident is a reminder to never dress as a police officer or modify your vehicle to resemble a police vehicle because it won’t take long for authorities to find out.