UPDATED 10:08 A.M. with additional information.
A Fontana man who was driving in Yucca Valley impersonating a law enforcement officer was arrested Tuesday. According to a Sheriff’s report, deputies were first alerted to the impersonator Sunday. The victim said she had been stopped about 3 p.m. by an officer who was driving a Crown Victoria car with the words “San Bernardino” on the side. Acting as a law enforcement officer, the impersonator searched the victim’s car, questioned her, and then sent her on her way. The victim said she later received a text message from “Officer Grey” who said he wanted to ask her more questions. The victim then contacted the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department who said that deputies would not text people. About 3 p.m. Tuesday, deputies responded to a second call about the fake cop near Dumosa Avenue and Highway 62 in Yucca Valley. The caller said the suspect was driving a car with a black body and a white top with the words “San Bernardino County Sheriff” on the side, although the words appeared to be on a magnet. When the victim asked to see his badge, the fake cop, who was dressed in civilian clothing, left westbound on the highway. Deputies soon located the impersonator, who was identified as Ronald Castaneda, 40. His booking record gives his occupation as “legal service.”
Ronald Castaneda was arrested for investigation of impersonating a police officer, and cited and released. Anyone who believes they may have been stopped by someone impersonating a deputy should call the Sheriff’s Department at 760-366-4175.
