FREEPORT, NY – Nassau County police say a Long Beach man is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly posing as a law enforcement officer during an encounter with officers in Freeport on Tuesday night.
According to detectives, officers with the First Squad observed two men and a woman near Babylon Turnpike and Colonial Avenue at around 7:39 p.m. on September 23, 2025. As officers approached the group, one man and the woman walked away, leaving the second man behind for questioning.
During the interaction, the man presented what appeared to be a City of Long Beach Police Detective’s badge and identification card, claiming he was employed as a detective. Police determined that neither the badge nor the ID was genuine and that the man was not a member of the Long Beach Police Department.
The suspect, identified as Ariel Espinal, 35, of Shore Road, Long Beach, was taken into custody without incident. He has been charged with:
- Criminal Impersonation 1st Degree
- Forgery 2nd Degree
- Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree
Espinal was scheduled to be arraigned today, Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at First District Court in Hempstead.
Arrest – Freeport
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Arrested | Ariel Espinal, 35, of Shore Road, Long Beach |
| Date & Time of Incident | Tuesday, September 23, 2025 – 7:39 PM |
| Location | Babylon Turnpike & Colonial Avenue, Freeport |
| Allegation | Posed as a Long Beach Police Detective with fake badge and ID |
| Charges | – Criminal Impersonation 1st Degree – Forgery 2nd Degree – (2) Counts Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree |
| Arraignment | Wednesday, September 24, 2025 – First District Court, Hempstead |
Q&A: Understanding the Charges
What is Criminal Impersonation 1st Degree?
In New York, this charge applies when a person pretends to be a police officer or other public servant with the intent to mislead or defraud. It is a felony offense and considered a serious violation of public trust.
Why is Forgery 2nd Degree included?
Forgery in the second degree typically involves creating or altering an official document, such as an ID card or badge, with the intent to deceive others.
What does Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument mean?
This charge refers to knowingly holding or using a fake document or identification as if it were real. In this case, Espinal is accused of possessing both a fraudulent badge and an ID card.
What happens next in court?
After arraignment at First District Court in Hempstead, the judge will determine whether Espinal is released, granted bail, or remanded. The case will then proceed through preliminary hearings and potential grand jury action before moving forward to trial if not resolved.
Why is impersonating a police officer taken so seriously?
Law enforcement impersonation undermines public safety and erodes trust in real officers. It can also be used to commit other crimes, which is why the law carries strong penalties.
