Man robbed after being pulled over by police impersonator in Woodmere

WOODMERE, New York (WABC) -- Nassau County police are searching for a man who impersonated a police officer and robbed a motorist Monday afternoon, and they're hoping a sketch will lead to an arrest.

The incident happened around 3:45 p.m. Monday in Woodmere.

Authorities say the 25-year-old male victim was driving northbound on Broadway when he observed that a black Jeep behind him had turned on flashing red lights. He pulled his vehicle over and was approached by a man who stated he was a police officer.

The suspect ordered the victim out of his car and had him remove his belongings and place them on the trunk of the car. He then took the victim's wallet, which contained an undisclosed amount of cash, and had the victim return to his car.

As the victim was entering his vehicle, he saw the Jeep make a U-turn and flee southbound on Broadway.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male in his 30s, approximately 6 feet tall.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.

The robbery happened just outside the small village of Woodsburgh, which has its own security system -- including a license plate reader -- which police are now checking.

Experts and law enforcement advise that if you doubt the authority of someone driving an unmarked car, don't be afraid to call 911.

"Call 911," said Victor Media, of Delta Strategic Solutions and a former officer. "The dispatcher or 911 operator can immediately advise if, in fact, that is a police car that is pulling over that car."