Driver accused of pretending to be a police officer by using siren in a bid to pull over car

A driver has been charged with impersonating a police officer after allegedly using a siren in a bid to stop another motorist.

Thomas Cox, 20, of Quantock Close, Warmley, will appear at Bristol Magistrates Court on January 11.

He is accused of driving along Fishponds Road, Bristol, on December 12 while pretending to be an officer in a police car, using blue and red flashing lights in a bid to encourage a male motorist to pull over.

Avon and Somerset Police said the man has been charged with impersonating a police officer, driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.

The force has taken the opportunity to remind the public of its new officer verification process, which came in during October.

Officers must provide their name and collar number to anyone who asks.

They can also call the control room heir police radio asking an operator to confirm their identity and location, putting their radio on loudspeaker so the member of the public can hear the response.

More information on the process is here.