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Press Release

Maryland Man Charged With Impersonating FBI Agent

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Delaware

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a federal grand jury in Wilmington charged Eric Kappesser, age 27, of Stevensville, Maryland, with two counts of impersonating a federal agent and one count of the unauthorized possession of a badge or insignia of a federal agency. The defendant faces up to 3 years in prison on each of the impersonation charges and up to 6 months in prison on the unauthorized possession charge.

The Indictment alleges that, between April and October 2016, the defendant represented himself to others as an agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. In addition, defendant Kappesser specifically requested and obtained a law enforcement discount when purchasing certain firearms accessories in September 2016. In or around October 2016, defendant also wore a replica of an FBI badge around his neck.

Acting U.S. Attorney Weiss noted, “Individuals who impersonate law enforcement officers violate the public trust and pose a risk to public safety. Such conduct disrespects the law enforcement officers who place themselves at risk every day to keep our communities safe. ”

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Wolf.

The charges in the Indictment are only allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Updated May 3, 2017

Topic
Violent Crime