Marysville man arrested for impersonating officer in Sutter County stop

A Marysville man was arrested Saturday after a motorist reported being pulled over by someone impersonating law enforcement in Sutter County, authorities said.

Sutter County sheriff’s deputies responded to the area of Highway 20 and Bridge Street in Meridian after a driver reported suspicious behavior during a traffic stop. Deputies located a vehicle matching the caller’s description about three miles east, near South Tarke Road and Highway 20.

The motorist was brought to the location and identified the driver as the person involved in the stop, according to the Sheriff’s Office. Deputies said the 42-year-old man is a convicted felon and had an active misdemeanor warrant from Sacramento County dating to 2019, court records show.

A search of the vehicle uncovered a loaded 30-round AR-15 magazine, an unregistered AR-15 rifle and an LED light pod capable of flashing red and blue lights, deputies said.

The man was booked into Sutter County Jail on multiple felony firearm charges, possession of paraphernalia and impersonating a peace officer. He remained in custody Tuesday morning in lieu of $35,000 bail.

Authorities reminded the public that deputies will identify themselves and present credentials during traffic stops. Most stops are conducted in marked patrol vehicles. If an unmarked vehicle is used, officers are required to provide proper identification.

Anyone unsure whether they are being stopped by a legitimate officer in Sutter County is urged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 530-822-7307 or dial 911 if they believe they are in danger.