How you spot an impersonating officer

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Indiana State Police search for the suspect(s) responsible for stealing an Indiana State Troopers' guns and uniforms from his home in Clay County, Indiana.

In order to keep you and your family safe from an impersonator, here are a few things to keep in mind.

If a police officer approaches your home.

• Police said to keep your cell phone or home phone in hand.
• Talk through the door, at first, and get a good look at the officer.
• Police said to look for facial hair. Indiana State Troopers can only have mustaches and must be well groomed.
• Look for their picture ID. All troopers are required to carry it with them.
• Look at the uniform and make sure the uniform fits properly.

If any of these items do not seem right, ask for a supervisor or dial 9-1-1.

If an officer pulls you over, especially in an unmarked car here are some things to keep in mind.

• In Indiana, the officer must have both red and blue lights. Sometimes impersonators will have only red or just white light flashing.
• Police said sometimes you can drive with your flashers on for a short time, a mile maybe, to a well lit area.
• If unsure about a traffic stop, ask for a supervisor to the scene. Police said troopers will rarely ask you to get out of your car, unless you are suspected of being an impaired driver or committing a criminal offense.
• When the officer approaches your vehicle, police said you should keep your doors locked, roll down window about 3 inches and hand your license that way.
• Remember to take a good look at the officer and look for the items mentioned above.

Police said judge the trooper's demeanor. If they seem ignorant of the job or do not act like an officer call 9-1-1 immediately.

Police said whether you are in your home or in your car, you can be talking to a loved one or friend on the phone until you are sure it is a real police officer. Then, have the other person check back with you in a few minutes.