Sketch released of Nassau cop impersonator

First Squad detectives released a sketch on Thursday of a man who they say identified himself as a police officer during two minor Nassau County traffic incidents, police said.

Sunday night, a man driving a white Mitsubishi Galant struck a 2005 Toyota on Grand Avenue in Baldwin, then pulled over a 1996 Honda on Merrick Avenue in East Meadow.

In both situations, the man got out of his car, identified himself as a police officer and displayed a gold, star-shaped badge, police said.

The incidents happened between 7:10 p.m. and 9:04 p.m.

Police say the impersonator is 30 to 40 years old with a crew cut. He was wearing tan cargo shorts and a white tank top and displayed the star-shaped badge around his neck.

"This is not the normal police impersonation that we see," Det. Vincent Garcia of the public information office said. "There's no motive behind it. In both cases, he was trying to hit the cars ... and he was in a highly agitated state."

Garcia said police are hoping the sketch will prompt witnesses to give tips. He also said collision shops should be on alert because the Mitsubishi is believed to have some front-end damage from the first incident.

Anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers, 800-244-8477. All calls will be kept confidential.