Police have charged a township man for allegedly impersonating a Homeland Security officer earlier this month.
Nicholas M. Cabral turned himself in on Dec. 11 after a warrant was issued for his arrest, according to township police. On Wednesday, Dec. 10, at approximately 1:56 p.m., police were dispatched to 207 Strand Ave. for a property check after a caller reported that a home under construction had a front door open.
The caller was later identified as Cabral.
As officer Justin Frazer arrived on scene, a marked Homeland Security police vehicle arrived at the same time, according to police. A male subject later identified as Cabral exited the Dodge Charger and was met by the officer. He allegedly identified himself as a Homeland Security police officer and attempted to assist officers in clearing the residence while armed with a handgun.
Although Cabral possessed a valid New Jersey carry permit for the weapon, a follow-up investigation confirmed he is not employed by the Homeland Security department, any federal law-enforcement agency or any police department.
Further investigation revealed Cabral had allegedly operated a marked Homeland Security police vehicle belonging to his wife, who is employed by the department as an officer and was out of state on a duty assignment. Homeland Security responded and took possession of the vehicle.
Additional ALPR (Automatic License Plate Recognition) data showed the police vehicle had been driven with emergency lights activated to a Wendy’s restaurant.
Cabral is charged with impersonating a police officer and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose in the second degree. He is being held in the Salem County Jail and the firearm involved was seized following a search.
Anyone with additional information or additional possible impersonation encounters is asked to contact Det. Anthony Aquilino at (856) 589-0330 or araquilino@pd.twp.washington.nj.us
