Authorities in Phoenix dealt with an unusual and concerning incident earlier this month when a man was reported to be impersonating a federal agent and attempting to detain a security guard. On the evening of July 11, Phoenix Police responded to a call near 25th and Dunlap avenues, where a Valley Metro light rail employee reported Jose Ruben Herrera, Jr., 52, confronting a security guard while falsely claiming to be an undercover agent with ICE and the Border Patrol, according to ABC15.
According to court documents obtained by ABC15, Herrera accused the security officer of letting “a terrorist who was in his visual custody get away.” Despite his reluctance to show any badges or credentials proving his police enforcement position, Herrera requested the guard’s detention. Herrera was not hired by either ICE or Border Patrol, according to their records.
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In a statement received by AZFamily, a retired ICE agent underscored the consequences of such impersonations, saying, “It puts the public in great danger,” and adding that maintaining ICE’s validity is vital. The retired spy argued that losing faith in their institutions has a detrimental impact on society.
As the situation worsened, Phoenix Police were compelled to detain Herrera, who allegedly became confrontational with the officers and claimed the right to an attorney. In addressing the broader issue of law enforcement impersonation, Gov. Katie Hobbs stated, “Impersonating them makes their job much more difficult. It endangers our officers, erodes public trust, and reduces community safety.” Citing the possible consequences of such actions, DPS Director Col. Jeffrey Glover agreed that “impersonating a law enforcement officer is a serious crime that undermines public trust and threatens community safety,” as reported by AZFamily.
Following the arrest, the Arizona Department of Public Safety and the Governor’s Office issued guidelines for dealing with potential police impersonators. They recommended individuals stop in well-lit, high-traffic areas, request officer identification, dial 911, and take note of badge numbers and license plates. Valley Metro also emphasized the significance of safety and collaboration with local law enforcement to keep transit riders safe. According to ABC15, the judge placed Herrera’s bond at $10,050 for the offense and a related probation violation.
