CHELAN COUNTY, Wash. – A 62-year-old Spokane man was arrested on Thursday, May 8, 2025, after attempting to impersonate a police officer near Leavenworth, according to the Washington State Patrol (WSP).
The incident began around 6:40 p.m. on the Chumstick Highway when a driver reported being pulled over by a silver Ford Crown Victoria with red and blue lights. The vehicle passed the driver and attempted another stop 10 miles later on Eastbound US 2 near Dryden.
A Moses Lake trooper spotted the suspect vehicle, matching the description and temporary plate, and followed it. The vehicle was detained at 7:16 p.m., about five miles outside of Quincy.
Ronald Cowin, 62, of Spokane, was identified as the driver. He cooperated with authorities and was charged with Criminal Impersonation 2nd Degree. He was booked into the Chelan County Regional Jail.
The Washington State Patrol emphasized the rarity of police impersonation but provided advice for motorists who suspect they are being stopped by someone other than a legitimate officer:
Stay calm and avoid fleeing.Use flashers and drive to a secure, well-lit location.Call 911 to report concerns and follow the operator’s instructions.Do not exit the vehicle until legitimacy is confirmed.If legitimacy is confirmed, pull over safely and explain your concerns to the officer.
These measures aim to ensure safety and proper handling in such situations.
