Harris County, Texas is no stranger to crime, and the recent arrest of John Coote, a 30-year-old previously convicted felon, is yet another example of the dangers of impersonating a police officer. On Wednesday, Harris County Precinct 4 deputies with Constable Mark Herman’s Office responded to the 14400 block of Ella Boulevard in north Houston after receiving a call about a man who identified as a police officer.
When deputies arrived, they were told by a woman that Coote had displayed a gun and badge, claiming to be a police officer in an attempt to intimidate the leasing staff and threaten an eviction. Court documents revealed that on Jan. 28, Coote had pretended to be a police officer at the same location in order to gain access to surveillance cameras.
Constable Mark Herman reported that Coote was charged with Impersonating a Police Officer and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. He was also previously convicted on Dec. 16, 2014 of the felony offense of Assault – Family Member. The arrest of Coote serves as a reminder that crime can happen anywhere, and that it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to report any suspicious activity. It is also a reminder that impersonating a police officer is a serious crime that can have serious consequences.