Police: Burglar tells North Bellmore resident he’s a cop

Nassau police said the resident of a North Bellmore home confronted and got into a physical struggle with a burglar early Sunday after the robber broke in and said he was a police officer.

The break-in occurred at about 1:30 a.m. at the home on Pea Pond Road, police said.

Police said the male victim, 36, came home and heard a noise coming from upstairs and went to investigate. He came upon the male suspect in his bedroom, police said. The suspect then yelled he was a police officer and displayed a shield, authorities said.

A struggle ensued but the suspect was able to break free and fled the house in an unknown direction with no proceeds, police said.

The subject is described as 5 feet 8 inches tall and about 160 pounds. He was wearing a black jacket and a brown ski cap. Police said the victim was taken to a hospital in a private vehicle for treatment of lacerations to the face and head and a broken arm.

Detectives request anyone with information about the crime to call Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.