A California, Maryland man was arrested after allegedly conducting an unauthorized traffic stop on a Montgomery County officer, according to police.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight Monday in downtown Silver Spring. That’s when police said Melvin Andrew Pinkney Jr., 42, who was driving a Ford Taurus, approached the officer’s cruiser from the rear, activated red and blue emergency lights and initiated an unsanctioned traffic stop, according to MCPD.
Photo of Pinkney’s vehicle, a Ford Taurus. Photo provided by MCPD.
“The officer stepped out of his cruiser and spoke with Pinkney, who stated he was working security at a nearby restaurant and identified himself as an active-duty deputy sheriff with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and as a retired police officer with the Metropolitan Police Department,” wrote MCPD in a statement. “As Pinkney got out of the Ford wearing a holster, the officer activated the cruiser’s emergency equipment. Pinkney then returned to his vehicle,” according to the police statement.
Pinkney was armed with a handgun, but had a valid concealed carry permit. He did not provide any law enforcement credentials.
Investigators determined that Pinkney was driving a privately-owned vehicle rather than a law enforcement vehicle.
Melvin Andrew Pinkney Jr. Photo provided by MCPD.
Detectives said they believe there are additional victims who may have encountered Pinkney under similar circumstances and they are now asking the public to come forward.
Anyone with more information or who believes they may have been a victim of Pinkney is asked to contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County online at www.crimesolversmcmd.org or by calling 1-866-411-8477.
Police are also asking the public to learn how to identify a real Montgomery County Police officer, by watching the video below.
