On May 22, 2025, at approximately 9:58 a.m., New York State Police stopped a vehicle on Columbia Turnpike in the town of Schodack, New York. The driver, identified as Earl L. Broomall, 84, of Nassau, NY, was pulled over for a Vehicle and Traffic Law violation. During the stop, Broomall produced a law enforcement badge and declared himself a retired FBI agent. However, investigation later confirmed that he had never been employed by the FBI nor certified as a law enforcement officer.
Event Details and Charges
The police report states that the initial reason for the traffic stop was a violation of New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Laws. At the scene, Broomall’s presentation of a law enforcement badge and his claim to federal credentials complicated the matter. Such behavior, under New York law, falls under Criminal Impersonation in the First Degree—a Class E felony. The statute explicitly forbids any individual from representing themselves as an officer or agent of law enforcement, particularly if it is done in a manner that may induce trust or compliance from the public.
Broomall was arrested on the spot by state troopers and was transported to the State Police processing facility in Schodack for further investigation. Subsequent legal proceedings saw him arraigned at Schodack Town Court, where he was remanded without bail due to the serious nature of the offenses alleged. Being held without bail indicates that the court viewed the impersonation, especially as it involves misrepresenting oneself as a federal officer, as a threat to public trust and safety.
Legal Context
Under New York Penal Law § 190.26, Criminal Impersonation in the First Degree is defined as unlawfully representing oneself as a public servant, particularly when the impersonation involves wearing or displaying unauthorized insignia that would ordinarily be associated with law enforcement. The law mandates that any such representation, intended to induce the public to yield obedience or perform actions based on the supposed authority of a law enforcement official, constitutes a serious offense. The charge carries potential penalties that may include imprisonment for up to four years and fines of up to$5,000.
The legal process in New York begins with an arraignment, where the accused is formally presented with the charges. In Broomall’s case, the court’s decision to remand him without bail reflects concerns over the potential danger and the risk of flight, despite the defendant’s advanced age. Following arraignment, further steps such as preliminary hearings, possible grand jury proceedings, and pretrial motions are likely to follow as the court examines the broader implications of impersonation crimes on public safety.
Community and Law Enforcement Reactions
Officials from the New York State Police stressed that impersonation of law enforcement is not only a breach of trust but also a dangerous act that can erode public confidence in legitimate governmental authorities. A spokesperson noted that any display of false credentials—such as a fabricated badge or false claims to federal service—undermines community safety and hampers effective law enforcement. Although the FBI did not release a specific statement regarding this incident, federal advisories have long cautioned the public to verify the credentials of anyone claiming to have law enforcement affiliation.
Local law enforcement in Schodack and surrounding areas reiterated their commitment to public safety by urging citizens to confirm the legitimacy of any individual claiming to be an officer. Community leaders have called for increased public awareness and recommended that anyone encountering suspicious behavior immediately report it to registered law enforcement channels. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with impersonation crimes and the steps necessary to protect public trust.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
With the arraignment complete and Mr. Broomall held without bail, the case now moves into its pretrial phase. During this period, the prosecution will work to consolidate evidence while the defense prepares for any potential motions or plea negotiations. Considering that Criminal Impersonation in the First Degree is a Class E felony, the outcome of this case may have far-reaching consequences, including a permanent criminal record and significant legal penalties if convicted—including imprisonment, fines, and additional probationary measures.
Legal experts note that while first-time offenders might sometimes receive leniency, the deliberate nature of impersonating a law enforcement agent often results in stringent judicial responses. In similar past cases, courts have emphasized that even non-violent felonies of this nature carry severe societal repercussions, underscoring the importance of preserving the legitimacy of public institutions.
