Georgia police arrest man for impersonating a Florida police officer, committing robbery

ORLANDO, FL - According to the Orlando Police Department (OPD), a hotel guest in August reported that a man claiming to be an officer with that department forced his way into her hotel room. The officer was armed with what appeared to be a firearm tucked into his waistband. The assailant handcuffed the woman and stole her wallet.

In September, the suspect was identified by police as Michael Darren Jesse Rodriguez, and he was arrested in Georgia with Orlando police being summoned to investigate. Upon searching his vehicle, they discovered a counterfeit badge and handcuffs inside.

As reported by WESH, the suspect was recorded on hotel security cameras, and the vehicle he was driving was also caught on camera. Police told reporters that Rodriguez may have carried out a similar robbery in the past, confirming that he was wanted for an armed robbery "similar to the one in Orlando."
 

On 08/23/2024, the Orlando Police Department responded to reports of an armed robbery at a hotel near Universal Blvd. and International Dr. Officers met with the victim who stated an unknown man, wearing a “badge” around his neck, forced his way into her hotel room, claiming to… pic.twitter.com/duQMK1VSms

— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) October 17, 2024

In a statement posted to X, the Orlando Police stated, "On 09/08/2024, LPD was contacted by the Gwinnett County Police Department stating officers in Georgia apprehended Rodriguez driving the same vehicle observed in both incidents in Lantana and Orlando. Orlando Police Department detectives traveled to Gwinnett County to execute a search of the suspect’s vehicle. They recovered a fake police badge, handcuffs, and additional evidence related to the Lantana and Orlando cases."

An arrest warrant was issued for the suspect. Once extradition proceedings are completed, he will be brought back to Orange County to face charges including false imprisonment with a weapon, robbery with a firearm, and impersonating an officer to commit a felony, the outlet reported.

Investigators believe that Rodriguez may have visited the Orlando area and several Florida cities in August. He also stayed at a Days Inn in Miami Springs.

Officials expressed concern that there could be more potential victims and they are requesting any come forward.