Alleged Fake Federal Cop Arrested by Real Cops in Washington Twp., NJ

A man who was allegedly posing as a federal police officer was arrested by real police officers in Gloucester County earlier this week.

The Washington Township Police Department says the scene unfolded around 2:00 Wednesday afternoon when their officers were dispatched to a home that is under construction on Strand Avenue. A caller, later identified as Nicholas M. Cabral of Sewell, reported that the front door of that home was open.

As (real) Ofc. Justin Frazer arrived at the home, a marked Homeland Security police vehicle pulled up at the same time.

Authorities say Cabral got out of that vehicle and he identified himself as a Homeland Security police officer, and he attempted to assist (real) officers in clearing the home while armed, holding a handgun.

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Investigation Reveals No Law Enforcement Employment

According to officials, although he possessed a valid New Jersey permit to carry, they learned that Homeland Security did not employ him, nor did any federal law enforcement agency, or police department. They were also able to determine that he had been allegedly operating the marked vehicle, which actually belongs to his wife, who is employed by Homeland Security as a police officer, while she was out of state on an assignment. Additional data also showed that the vehicle had been driven with its emergency lights on and he also went to a Wendy's restaurant, per (real) police.

Charges Filed

Cabral surrendered to (real) police on Thursday. He has been charged with impersonating a police officer and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. He is being held at the Salem County Jail.

How to Help (Real) Cops

Those with information about this case, or if anyone possibly had an interaction with Cabral, are asked to contact (real) Det. Anthony Aquilino at (856) 589-0330.

The public is reminded that charges are accusations and all persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Chris Coleman, a South Jersey native, is the brand manager for WPG Talk Radio 95.5 FM and afternoon on-air personality on WPUR Cat Country 107.3 in Atlantic City, NJ. He joined the station in February 1998 and covers news, events, and stories of interest across Southern New Jersey for Townsquare Media. Story tips can be sent to chris.coleman@townsquaremedia.com .