Man accused of posing as officer after stopping driver in Mary Esther

MARY ESTHER, Fla. — A Shalimar man is facing multiple charges after allegedly impersonating a federal officer during a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 98 on November 4.

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) said it arrested 69-year-old Salvatore Gruny, who reportedly used his personal Dodge Charger equipped with flashing blue, red, and white lights to stop another driver.

Deputies say Mr Gruny identified himself as a government official, presenting a badge from the Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI), and carried a loaded 9mm handgun on his hip.

According to the victim, Gruny claimed he was stopped for reckless driving. When questioned about his authority, Mr Gruny allegedly stated he was with the government, displaying his ONI badge and firearm.

The OCSO said ONI officials confirmed that Gruny, who is retired, has been warned about similar behavior in the past.

Mr Gruny is charged with impersonating a federal officer, use of a firearm during a felony, unlawful use of blue lights, and unlawful use of a badge, among other charges.

Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden emphasized that police impersonation is rare in the area.

“We have unmarked cars and people in plain clothes but typically they’re not pulling cars over. If you get pulled over with an unmarked car with us, it’s still going to be someone typically in uniform,” Sheriff Aden said.

He advised citizens to call the OCSO dispatch if they are uncertain about the legitimacy of a traffic stop.