GSPS spokeswoman Kaitlyn Dunn told a news conference today that several residents had told police in recent weeks that they had been stopped by a man driving a replica of a police vehicle with the lights on. The most recent incident reported in the media occurred on April 8, when a woman was pulled over on Highway 17 by a vehicle that appeared to be a police cruiser. On April 12, Greater Sudbury police carried out a search warrant for a house on Dave Street after identifying the man they believed to be responsible. Police located and seized two Dodge Charger vehicles believed to have been used to commit the offenses. Robert Restiaux was arrested and charged with two counts of impersonating a peace officer. He appeared in bail on April 13 to respond to the charges. The investigation into these incidents is ongoing and the GSPS encourages anyone who believes they have been stopped by a person operating a similar vehicle without a proper police ID to contact the Traffic Management Unit at 705-675-9171 ext. 2421. “Our officers will be wearing Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS) recognizable attire, including shoulder flashes and force equipment,” the GSPS said in a press release. “An officer in civilian clothes (not in uniform) will have a badge that is immediately available on his waist belt or on a chain around his neck. We remind community members that if you are worried or unsure, you have the right to request a police ID. “
