Southampton traffic stop uncovers fake DC plates, sparks Secret Service investigation
Police say the vehicle's owner, 58-year-old James Robitsek of East Setauket, was also at the scene wearing the "Police Secret Service" shirt in gold letters on the back, despite having no known affiliation with the agency.
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A traffic stop in Southampton has drawn the attention of the U.S. Secret Service after local police say they found fake Washington, D.C. license plates and a man wearing a shirt that said "Police Secret Service" - with no known connection to the agency.
Southampton Village police say officers stopped a Cadillac on West Main Street over the weekend for using unauthorized red and blue lights on the vehicle.
The driver was identified as 62-year-old Barry Armato, of Lindenhurst.
Police say the vehicle's owner, 58-year-old James Robitsek of East Setauket, was also at the scene wearing the "Police Secret Service" shirt in gold letters on the back, despite having no known affiliation with the agency.
Authorities impounded the Cadillac and say they found a fake shotgun, a fake New York state license plate, six fake Washington, D.C., license plates and other items inside.
Summonses were issued for switched plates, failing to display registration, no front plate and unauthorized use of red and blue lights.
Setauket Patriots addressed the seizure of the vehicle, saying the replica is one of two presidential limousines owned by the pro-Trump conservative Facebook group.
It said the vehicle is used for parades, car shows and political events and is not an official government asset.
The group says it is cooperating with authorities while also contesting what they describe is "an overreaction."
Southampton Village police say the Secret Service was notified and is now conducting its own investigation.
