[Music] On February 8th, 2019, deputies from the Lanokei County Sheriff's Office in Arkansas conducted what would become a textbook example of identifying and apprehending a law enforcement impersonator. The subject, 37-year-old Jeremy Kirk, had just activated emergency lights and sirens directly in front of an unmarked patrol vehicle, accelerating to 90 mph in what appeared to be an emergency response. >> I'm sorry, sir. >> Your ID yourself is arson investigator, right? >> Where does that radio go to? >> It's atom radio. It's a win radio. >> Where did you get a win radio? >> Deputy immediately recognizes several red flags. The subject identifies himself as an independent arson investigator wearing a badge resembling official law enforcement insignia. Under Arkansas Code section 537208, criminal impersonation in the first degree occurs when someone pretends to be a law enforcement officer by wearing or displaying without authority any uniform or badge by which an officer is lawfully distinguished. >> Okay, step out. Step back here. >> Sure. >> You got your camera on? You better make sure. >> Okay, step out. Notice the deputy's systematic approach to the investigation. He's documenting each piece of evidence, the badge, the emergency radio tuned to the frequency, the vehicle equipped with emergency lights. This methodical collection of evidence will be crucial for the subject claims to be serving civil papers. The civil process servers have no legal authority to use emergency equipment or violate traffic laws under Arkansas statutes. >> Is that our frequency you're listening to? >> Yes, sir. No car. >> Where's the phone? >> The subject now reveals he's with AM Arkansas Department of Emergency Management as a volunteer. However, volunteer status with emergency management does not grant authority to use emergency light for private business with deputies his probable cost systematically asking about each piece of equipment and its intended use. The subject's explanation that handcuffs serve as a theft deterrent strains credibility. The >> civil papers using our radio running lights and sirens. Didn't know he was behind you, did you? >> You're not law enforcement occurs as the deputy discovers the subject is monitoring law enforcement radio frequencies while conducting private business. In many jurisdictions, monitoring police frequencies while committing crimes can be considered an aggravating factor. The subject's claim that he enjoys playing with the radar detector further undermines any legitimate law enforcement purpose for his equipment. >> Things we're going to do here. >> Okay. >> You got handcuffs in there, too. >> Mhm. What are the handb for? >> Uh, they're from >> What are they for? >> They're a theft deterrent. >> Investigation reveals an extensive collection of law enforcement equipment, handcuffs, a radar unit, emergency lights, a police scanner, and a K9 unit designation on the vehicle. Each item alone might have an innocent explanation, but the totality creates overwhelming evidence of impersonation. This concept, known as the totality of circumstances, is fundamental in criminal investigations. won't break into it. >> If if you walked up to break that window and break in and you saw that, would you break in? >> I'm not a criminal, but yeah, I'd steal your handcuffs and steal your guns. >> Okay. Is there guns in there? >> Deputy properly identifies himself and his authority before proceeding with the former arrest. This is a procedural requirement that ensures the legitimacy of the arrest and protects both the officer and suspect's rights. The subject is informed of the charges and his rights begin to be read. You're trying to ID yourself and come off as a law enforcement officer. >> No, that's what it looks like to me. Why would you wear an arson investigator badge to serve civil papers? >> The deputy administers Miranda warnings as required by the Supreme Court's decision in Miranda versus Arizona. These warnings must be given before any custodial interrogation. Notice the deputy ensures the subject acknowledges understanding of each right. This prevents later claims of confusion or coercion. Where's the canine? >> At home. >> What kind of dog is it? >> German Shepherd. >> What does it do? >> He's a tracking dog. He's a certified search and rescue dog. >> So, Adam gave you a a win radio. >> Post Miranda, the subject admits he's a certified search and rescue dog handler with a German Shepherd trained in tracking. While search and rescue work is legitimate, using that status to justify law enforcement equipment for private process servant crosses legal boundaries. The distinction between authorized emergency personnel and private citizens is crucial in law. Hold on. We're going to do this. >> Let me see that part. >> The deputy requests the subject's agent identification following proper investigative protocols by verifying claimed affiliations. The radio equipment particularly concerns law enforcement as unauthorized possession and use of emergency management radios may violate federal communications regulations in addition to state criminal statutes. Matt Ellis 50162. >> Documentation of equipment, serial numbers, and identification allows authorities to verify ownership and authorization. This meticulous evidence collection demonstrates professional investigation standards. Each piece of information gathered strengthens the criminal case and limits potential defenses. 6836700. >> Yes, sir. >> Bunch of dead bodies back there, man. >> The investigation continues as deputies attempt to contact Adam directly. This real-time verification prevents subjects from claiming misunderstanding or miscommunication later. Government agencies maintain strict protocols about equipment distribution, particularly communications devices that access emergency frequencies. The subject's claim of being a volunteer becomes increasingly problematic. Volunteer status with emergency management does not authorize using emergency equipment for personal business. Arkansas law is clear that emergency vehicle provisions apply only during actual emergency responses, not private civil process serving. wind. When questioned about what law authorizes his use of emergency lights, the subject admits he doesn't know of any. This omission is significant. Ignorance of the law is generally not a defense, but knowing violation demonstrates intent, a key element in criminal imprisonation charges. >> You hold on to this. >> You're running amber green lights, >> traffic. Deputies discover additional concerning items in the vehicle, including what the subject describes as a buy stick for dogs. The accumulation of law enforcement style equipment combined with the subject's shifting explanations strengthens the probable cause for arrest and subsequent vehicle search under the automobile exception. >> I can't remember his last name now. >> Well, he's he's says he's a volunteer. Don't get your right to be running lights. >> The sheriff arrives on scene and takes control of the investigation. He's decision to seize the Aiden radio as evidence is proper procedure. Equipment used in commission of crimes becomes evidence regardless of ownership. ADM will be notified and can reclaim their property through proper legal. >> Sir, mind if I open your door, activate lights in front of your truck? >> Uh, I'll be happy to do that for you, sir. >> That's a bite sticker dogs. The subject's admission that he was trying to get that lady before she left with her children reveals his motivation for using emergency equipment. However, urgency in serving civil papers does not create legal authority to violate traffic laws or impersonate law enforcement. Private process servers must operate within the same legal constraints as any citizen. >> Are you a firefighter? >> I am certified firefighter, too. >> Are you a firefighter? What what agency? >> I'm not. >> What emergency was you running to? >> We We've been over >> What emergency running were you running to? We've been over it. Which emergency were you running into? >> The sheriff examines the civil papers being served. A divorce and custody matter from Harris County, Texas. Interested service of process has specific legal requirements, none of which include authorization for emergency operation. >> The subject claims this is his first service raising questions about his business legitimacy. >> Oh, back up. Back up. >> I'm I got a hearing disability. I'm sorry. >> You can say that without stepping toward us. >> Listen, I don't have a hearing disability. >> Okay, >> I can talk louder. I have >> the papers that you're going to serve right now. >> I can hand sir. >> Critical information emerges. These are the first papers the subject has ever served in his claimed business. Starting a process service company by immediately violating multiple laws and endangering public safety demonstrates remarkably poor judgment. The sheriff's skepticism is entirely warranted. >> That's everything I'm serving. Sir, >> I told you what you were serving. What I asked for was very clear. What are you serving right now that you were driving like that for? restraining order. >> You serve in a restraining order, >> which is not a divorce. >> The subject claims authorization through Lenoki County, but the papers originate from Texas. This inconsistency in his story further undermines credibility. Interstate service of process requires following the laws of the state where service occurs, not the originating jurisdiction. >> I'm sorry, sir. >> You got till >> Well, that's the court date. Well, he's also our civil process service. So, you can >> district court of Paris County, Texas. >> Mhm. >> You said it was from Lono County. >> I'm authorized through Lono County. >> Deputies begin discussing potential federal charges related to the communications equipment. Unauthorized use of emergency management radios may violate federal communications commission regulations. The subject's volunteer status, even if legitimate, doesn't extend to using government equipment for private business ventures. I'm not sure we're not going to tell his ride and have and uh this evidence. >> The sheriff notices the subject has a notary commission which requires a background check in Arkansas. If the subject has prior felony convictions, obtaining a notary commission would require false statements on the application, potentially adding forgery or false swearing charges to the criminal impersonation. >> That is a theft attorney. Yeah. And that aspir. >> What process company do you work for? >> I work for myself, sir. >> What's the name of your company? >> Are you? >> A crucial revelation. The subject has a revoked handgun license. In Arkansas, licenses are typically revoked for criminal convictions or mental health adjudications. The subject's reluctance to explain the revocation suggests criminal history, which would make possession of weapons illegal under federal and state law. >> Criminal impersonation is what I think. Without a doubt. >> Where you from? >> Jacksonville. >> You have a revoked handgun wise. >> Mhm. >> Why is it revoked? >> I'm I'm >> The sheriff identify himself as a firearms instructor presses for information about the revocation. The subject missed a mistake a long time ago, likely referring to criminal convictions. This emission combined with law enforcement equipment suggests potential federal charges for felon in possession of weapons. >> You put everybody at risk. We had to do 90 mph to catch up with you. Just so happens we drive black and gray Dodge pickups, too. To me, you're impersonating one of my deputy sheriffs. Makes it hard for us to do our job if you run around here doing this kind of stuff. Everybody over here is giving us thumbs up. >> Deputies discover additional law enforcement equipment during the vehicle inventory. Arkansas law permits inventory searches of impounded vehicles to protect owner property and officer safety. Any evidence discovered during lawful inventory is admissible in court, even without a search. >> Yeah. >> And the radio. >> So where does that radio come back to? >> Did you purchase it? >> No, it belongs to Adam. >> It belongs to Adam. >> Yes, sir. >> It's going to be returned to Adam. >> Okay. >> He's got a lady. >> The sheriff determines criminal impersonation charges are appropriate, citing Arkansas Code section 537208 as a class D felony. This charge carries potential imprisonment up to six years and significant. The systematic collection of evidence makes conviction highly likely. >> Hand the papers. Nope. >> Put your hands on the truck. >> Have anything else on you shouldn't have on you? >> Nope. >> Are you incorporated? >> I am. >> The state of Arkansas? >> Yes. >> The formal arrest proceeds with the subject being handcuffed and searched for officer safety. The search incident to arrest doctrine established in Chimo versus California permits officers to search arrested persons and the immediate area for weapons or evidence. >> The search is conducted professionally and within legal boundaries. >> These are the first papers you're served. >> Yes, sir. >> You've never served any other papers? >> No. >> So, why are your why is your handgun license revoked? You got your criminal history? >> During questioning about his search and rescue claims, inconsistencies continue emerging. The subject hasn't conducted any searches this year, hasn't been to a fire in years, and isn't affiliated with any official agency. These admissions destroy any remaining credibility for possessing emergency equipment. >> Radio ID is issued to Adam. We need a code as well. >> I'll go get my camera. Yeah. >> The sheriff identifies himself as a K9 handler, demonstrating expertise in the field. The subject claims the subject's claims about having a German shepherd training German for tracking work appear fabricated or greatly exaggerated. Professional K9 handlers recognize these inconsistencies immediately. >> What are you trying to be then? Why are you running like this? No other paper server does that. My guy drives a marked unit. He doesn't drive like that. >> Okay. >> He's a full-time certified deputy that serves papers. Yeah, >> he didn't act like this. >> Yeah, >> you got this badge on right here. Why are you wearing an AR inst? >> A significant emission occurs when the subject claims he wore the arson investigator badge to avoid being shot while serving paper. This statement demonstrates conscious impersonation of law enforcement for perceived safety benefits, directly supporting the criminal impersonation charges. Intent to deceive is clearly established. investigated. >> The sheriff's investigation reviews the subject obtained search and rescue license plates through potentially fraudulent meanings. Specialty plates in Arkansas require proof of affiliation with recognized organization. If the subject misrepresented his status to obtain these plates, additional fraud charges could appear. There's the mountain. >> Why are you taking my truck? >> Deputies discover the subject has active felony charges, explaining his revoked handgun license. In Arkansas, any felony conviction creates a lifetime prohibition of firearm possession unless specifically restored by executive pardon. The weapons found in the vehicle, even if less lethal, may violate these restrictions. Makes sense. Uh, you got felony charges on you and you got a badge. >> And I know what it says when I get close and I know what you're saying. Uh, you're saying you're an ars investigator. Nobody in this state or this country going to use you as ar investigator because you're a felony. >> The decision to impound and inventory the vehicle follows established protocol for arrests involving vehicles. >> The Supreme Court in South Dakota versus Upperheld standardized inventory procedures. Every item will be documented, preserving evidence and protecting against claims of theft or >> death. You're you you're telling us that you were trying to get here to cuz this says take kids and stuff. This doesn't say take kids. It says it's an emergency order. >> So the reason we're telling you also about why do you have a radar? >> Uh sure. I enjoy playing with it. >> The subject requests citation and release, but the sheriff correctly refuses. Criminal impersonation is a serious felony requiring booking and formal charging. The public safety risk posed by someone actively impersonating law enforcement justifies custodial arrest rather than citation release. >> You have guns in here? >> Nope. >> Are you under arrest? >> Discovery of the dash camera raises additional evidentiary concerns. The footage may contain evidence of multiple traffic violations and impersonation incidents. Under Arkansas law, this recording becomes evidence and will be analyzed for additional criminal conduct. >> You got that radio? >> Switcher does. >> So that dash cam, we need to get the footage off that dash cam of him doing 90 mph with lights and siren. David, >> was it recording while you driving? >> I don't know. Deputies coordinate evidence collection and documentation. The systematic approach ensures chain of custody requirements are met for trial. Each piece of equipment photographed and logged strengthens the prosecution's case and limits potential defense strategies. >> Yeah. >> Well, I mean, you see what I'm saying? The thing about it is the dash cam of what he did. We're going to receive that as well. >> Amateur radio volunteer for Adam. The sheriff discovers the subject obtained CPR instructor credentials, raising questions about background check fraud. Many professional certifications prohibit felons, particularly those involving public trust. If the subject concealed his criminal history, additional charges may >> say you started papers for >> where do you get the papers from? >> These particular ones came from a attorney in Houston. Further investigation reveals extensive law enforcement style equipment in the vehicle's rear compartment. The quantity and variety of equipment eliminates any reasonable claim of coincidence or misunderstanding. This represents deliberate premeditated impersonation of law enforcement person. >> The only thing you don't have is >> a gun. What's in the back of your truck here? What are those for? The sheriff determines the equipment cash justifies enhanced charges and potentially federal investigation. When criminal impersonation involves extensive equipment and interstate activity, federal authorities may pursue prosecution under title 18 provisions regarding impersonation of federal officers. >> You got your card instruction for >> somewhere. What's in the box there? >> Uh I don't think anything else. I may have a jump box in there. What was the last class you taught? Where was it at? >> Discovery of pepper spray and additional handcuffs and bags throughout the vehicle continues building the case. Each item discovered as weight to the prosecution's argument that this was systematic intentional criminal conduct rather than misunderstanding or poor judgment. >> Get a search warrant for anything and everything that's not locked. It doesn't our privacy or it's not locked. Like I say, our policy says I can >> you may need to get a search for his house. >> The sheriff questions the subject about his notary commission application, specifically whether he disclosed his felony conviction. In Arkansas, failing to disclose disqualifying information on official applications constitutes false swearing a separate felony char. So it's recent. >> So you lied on some paperwork there to get that. It asked if you've been convicted of crimes. Nope. >> You didn't lie on it? >> Nope. >> You put on there your spelling? >> Nope. >> Investigation reveals the subject's criminal history includes aggravated assault charges from 2008. This violent felony conviction absolutely prohibits possession of weapons and may disqualify him from numerous professional licenses he plans to hold. What do they handcuff us for? >> I said that's current. >> What about the ones in the bag and the pepper spray? >> The ones in the the back. Um, well, pepper spray off. >> Deputies discover a breathalyzer unit in the vehicle. The subject claims is to ensure he doesn't drive drunk, but law enforcement recognizes this as another tool used in police impersonation schemes. Private citizens have no legitimate need for portable breath testing equipment. You got a secret >> when you at when you applied for your notary. >> You filled out the questionnaire, right? What all questions you remember being on there cuz we're going to pull that as well. Okay. >> The sheriff's skepticism about the breathalyzer explanation is warranted. Impersonators often use such devices during fake traffic stops to appear legitimate. Combined with other evidence, this strengthens the argument for systematic criminal impersonation rather than isolated poor judgment. >> We're going to pull all that unless you want to talk to us. >> What happened about the aggravated assault? >> Photograph. He's got a breathalyzer. He's got a taser. He's got everything in here. I think a search >> and do a charge of >> the subject claims to be an independent search and rescue operator, but can't name any recent operations or affiliations. Legitimate search and rescue organizations maintain strict standards and wouldn't authorize members to use emergency equipment for private business. >> You have radar, you have BAC, a PBT, right? >> Make sure I don't drive. >> Make sure you don't drive. >> Mhm. >> That makes sense, huh? You carry one in your car, deputy? >> Let's make sure you don't drive. >> When questioned about recent fire responses, the subject admits he hasn't been to one in years. This admission contradicts his claimed need for emergency equipment and arson investigator credentials. The pattern of deception continues throughout the interrogation. >> What search and rescue are you with? >> I'm an inmate search and rescue guy. I have a dog and somebody needs me to call you. >> You drinking a day? >> No. The sheriff challenges the subject's kine handler claims, revealing his own expertise in the field. Professional handlers recognize the subject's claims about German commands and tracking work as likely fabricated. This expertise allows the sheriff to identify deception others might miss. >> Got on truck. >> Last fire you've been to. >> I'm sorry. Last fire. You've been >> deputies prepare for transport and booking while continuing to document evidence. Professional handling of this arrest from initial stop through booking preparation demonstrates proper law enforcement procedure. Every step is documented for court proceedings. >> Did you not put down you with search and rescue? >> Uh with search and rescue. Yes. >> And I still do that. >> You do? What kind of dog you got? >> German Shepherd. The sheriff instructs deputies to obtain search warrants if needed for locked containers. While the vehicle inventory is lawful, locked containers may require additional legal authority. This attention to constitutional requirements ensures evidence remains admissible. >> Just so happen. >> Yeah, >> I love our dogs. >> I'm sorry. >> I said I love our dog. >> Just so happens I'm a dog guy. >> Outstanding. We're going to get along well then. No, we're not either. I'm not a I'm not. >> Discussion of potential federal charges continues among deputies. The interstate nature of the subject's activities combined with possession of communications equipment may trigger federal jurisdiction. Coordination with federal authorities will determine final charging decisions. >> And I bet you Adam doesn't know you're convicted felon part of their organization. And real check with driver patrol about getting search and rescue tags. uh what it requires to get those amateur radio. >> The systematic evidence collection concludes with photography and documentation of all seized items. This comprehensive approach ensures successful prosecution and limits appallet issues. The deputy's professionalism throughout the investigation sets a high standard for similar cases. >> So whenever you uh >> where where were you headed to meet this lady? >> School. >> School. Keep saying school. What school? >> The high school. >> The high school. >> What's her name? >> I don't know. >> Who Who told you she was over there? >> Final preparations for transport include securing the subject and ensuring all evidence is properly tacked. The arrest concludes without violence or resistance despite the serious charges. This peaceful resolution reflects well on both law enforcement's approach and the subject's ultimate compliance. >> I'm trained in interviewing techniques. >> Okay, you're lying. What school are you going to? >> The high school. Take his camera and put an evidence, too. >> Come on. His cameras. >> Is it on? >> It is on recording. >> Awesome. >> Yeah. >> According to court records, Jeremy Kirk was convicted of criminal impersonation and sentenced to one year of probation with fines totaling $1,235. His vehicle and equipment were forfeited. In 2023, he filed a civil lawsuit against Lono County, which was dismissed without prejudice. Disturbingly, Kirk was arrested again in April 2020 for impersonating an officer and conducting a traffic stop on a 15-year-old girl in White County, Arkansas. This pattern of behavior validates the deputy's thorough investigation and prosecution of the original case. The body cam footage from this incident has been viewed over 7 million times and is frequently used in law enforcement training to demonstrate proper handling of impersonation cases.