AZDPS Arrests Police Impersonator Who Conducted a “Traffic Stop” Along U.S. 60 in Mesa
On Thursday, May 9, 2019, at approximately 2:28 PM, Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) Sergeant Brandon Powell was westbound on US 60 near Lindsay Road, when he observed a large SUV initiating a “traffic stop” on a passenger car. Sergeant Powell noticed the SUV had blue and red strobe lights and believed the SUV was an unmarked law enforcement vehicle.
Sergeant Powell stopped to assist and noticed the male driver of the SUV was already speaking with the female driver of the passenger car. He also noticed the driver did not have a firearm on his waist and was wearing a shirt embroidered with the letters, “MESA POLICE” on a gold badge.
Sergeant Powell began questioning the driver, now identified as 28-year-old Joshua Hillman, and determined he was not a law enforcement officer, nor was he affiliated with the Mesa Police Department. Hillman told Sergeant Powell he had stopped the passenger car because the vehicle had cut him off.
According to Hillman, he has utilized red and blue lights in the past when contacting stranded motorists. Hillman was arrested and booked into the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office 4th Avenue Jail for impersonating a police officer and three counts of kidnapping.
AZDPS investigators are asking the public to come forward if they have had police-type contact with Joshua Hillman. The public can submit their information through the following means:
- Web - Submit a tip (link is external) via web
- Call - (877) 2-SAVEAZ (877-272-8329) 24-hours a day
- AZDPS Mobile Application (link is external)
AZDPS Report Number 2019-022642
AZDPS To Host A Media Availability Regarding This Arrest With Sergeant Brandon Powell
DATE: Wednesday, May 15, 2019
TIME: 11:00 a.m. to Noon
LOCATION: AZDPS Public Service Center (PSC) 2222 West Encanto Blvd. Suite E80, Phoenix, Arizona 85009.
Please RSVP your time slot with the [email protected]
Once in the parking lot of the PSC, media should proceed to southeast gated parking lot. Use intercom to identify yourself with AZDPS Security. Questions should be directed to [email protected]
