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Sebastian man accused of pretending to be a deputy


Robert Newsome is accused of pretending to be a sheriff's deputy. (IRCSO)
Robert Newsome is accused of pretending to be a sheriff's deputy. (IRCSO)
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A Sebastian man is under arrest accused of pretending to be a sheriff's deputy.

On Monday, the Sebastian Police Department received several calls about a man walking around Indian River Drive and Coolidge Street with a firearm and sheriff’s badge on his waistband, the Sebastian Daily reported.

Responding deputies saw a man crossing U.S. Highway 1 .

Deputies said the man then removed his belt and threw it into a nearby bush.

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The man was identified as Robert M. Newsome, 65. Newsome said he was wearing a BB gun and took it off because he didn't want to get shot, according to the Sebastian Daily.

Newsome also told law enforcement that he told someone he was with the sheriff’s office and was “looking for his fishing equipment,” the affidavit said.

Newsome also said the sheriff’s badge was given to him by a family member.

Newsome was arrested and charged with Impersonate Law Enforcement Officer.

He is currently being held on a $5,000 bond at the Indian River County Jail.

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