12 March 2021
Press Release
Over the weekend of February 27 and 28th the North Carolina State Highway Patrol received two reports of a possible “blue light bandit” on US74 in Rutherford County attempting to stop motorists. Witnesses were interviewed after each report and an investigation immediately began. As the investigation progressed, enough information was gathered to develop a suspect vehicle in the case and later a suspect.
An arrest warrant was later issued on James Douglas Miller, 52 of Charlotte, NC for Felony Impersonation of a Law Enforcement Officer G.S. 14-277(b)(5). That arrest warrant was served by troopers on March 11, 2021. Mr. Miller was given a $25,000 Secured Bond and has a first appearance hearing in District Court today. The State Highway Patrol would like to thank The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance with this investigation.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol takes these cases very seriously. The dangerous and reckless acts of impersonation erode the trust and confidence the public must have in their law enforcement officers for them to be able to provide the services needed. There are a few things the public can do to prevent falling victim to someone impersonating a law enforcement officer.
The State Highway Patrol has a policy in place for all members operating an unmarked patrol car that the member should sound their siren (along with the blue lights) to signal a citizen to pull over. Many times, the people that have illegally obtained a flashing blue light will not have their vehicle outfitted with the electronic equipment necessary for a functioning siren. If you aren’t sure, wait until you hear the sound of the siren before pulling over. If you still are uncomfortable pulling over, especially at night or on a deserted highway, activate your four-way flashers and continue at a reduced speed until you reach a well-lit public area such as a convenience store or any open business. Troopers understand this person is acknowledging their presence and request to pull over, but are simply looking for a safe place to stop. If still unsure, an additional step you can take after activating your four-way flashers is to call *HP on your cellular phone. Advise the Highway Patrol Telecommunicator the road name and county you are in and tell them you think you are being stopped by a trooper and you are looking for a safe place to stop. They can quickly confirm that information via radio communications and relay that message to the trooper.
