NEW JERSEY – Senators Joe Pennacchio (R-26) and Carmen Amato, Jr. (R-09) recently introduced legislation that would create a new offense for impersonating a first responder while committing another crime.
“This legislation is vital in preserving the integrity of our first responders and ensuring the safety of our communities,” said Pennacchio. “Impersonating a first responder, especially while attempting to commit another crime, undermines the trust that citizens place in those who are sworn to protect. By making this behavior a criminal offense, we are sending a clear message that this dangerous deception will not be tolerated.”
“Impersonating a first responder is a dangerous act that not only puts public safety at risk but it also deteriorates the trust that communities place in them by creating confusion,” said Amato. “This legislation will allow law enforcement to hold individuals accountable for attempting to exploit the authority of first responders for criminal gain while upholding the reputation of our first responders.”
According to authorities in California, at least one person has been arrested for impersonating a firefighter while engaging in criminal activity amid the fires in Los Angeles County.
