By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — A local man will make his first appearance in court in September after being charged earlier this month with impersonating a public servant.
According to the Presque Isle Police Department’s log, NMCC security, while on routine patrol, encountered Michael G. Brown, 28, of Presque Isle, sitting in his vehicle the evening of July 17. The security guard approached the vehicle and spoke to Brown, who reportedly advised the guard he (Brown) was working for the Warden Service “going after ATVs.” Brown reportedly indicated to the security officer that he’d chased an ATV the night before but it got away from him.
The guard contacted the PIPD at approximately 9 p.m., indicating Brown was armed and displayed a badge.
Officer Kevin Reed, PIPD, responded and observed Brown following an ATV. Reed then followed Brown as Brown tailed the ATV. When both stopped, Reed initiated a traffic stop. Brown reportedly admitted to Reed that he’d identified himself to an NMCC security officer as working for the Maine Warden Service.
Reed found Brown in possession of a loaded Glock .40 caliber handgun, with no round chambered, and a police badge. After speaking with his supervisor, Sgt. Eric Erickson, and contacting Deputy District Attorney Carrie Linthicum, Reed arrested Brown and seized the weapon and badge as evidence.
Warden Alan Dudley, MWS, was advised and confirmed Brown was not affiliated with the Warden Service.
“Impersonating a public servant is a misdemeanor Class E offense, which can carry up to a $1,000 fine or six months in jail,” said Linthicum. Brown is scheduled to be arraigned September 23 at Presque Isle District Court.
