CLINTON TOWNSHIP (WWJ) A Clinton Township man has pled no contest to impersonating firefighters and other first responders at crime scenes.
Macomb County prosecutors said Jason Barnes, 48, represented himself as first responder at a murder scene on October 29, 2023. He allegedly offered help to a police officer at the scene.
The encounter led to further investigation of Barnes--which revealed he had impersonated firefighters/EMS at multiple "active crime scenes", according to prosecutors.
He was charged with Three Counts of Impersonating a Firefighter or Medical Service, a two-year felony.
He was also charged with:
-One Count of Possession of Firearms by a Prohibited Person, a five-year felony
-One Count of Ammunition Possession by a Prohibited Person, a five-year felony
-One Count of Unlawful Use of a Fire Emblem, a 93-day misdemeanor
-Habitual Offender – Fourth Offense Notice, an aggravating sentencing factor
He pled no contest to all counts with a Habitual Second Offense Notice at Macomb County Circuit Court on Friday, June 27. His sentencing is slated for Tuesday, August 19.
"Impersonating a first responder, whether it be law enforcement, fire, or EMS, is a serious offense that undermines public trust and puts our community at risk. These roles carry tremendous responsibility and authority," Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said. "Abusing that trust for personal gain or deception cannot be tolerated."