Pflugerville Man Arrested for Impersonating an Austin Police Officer

On January 16, 2024, the Austin Police Department (APD) launched an investigation into False Identification as a Peace Officer following the emergence of photos featuring an individual in an Austin Police Department uniform. The individual depicted in the photos was not recognized as a current or former APD Officer.

The ongoing investigation is being led by the Austin Police Department Aggravated Assault Unit, with support from the Austin Police Department Violent Crimes Task Force. The identified suspect in the case is 35-year-old Sean Michael Macdonald from Pflugerville.

On January 22, 2024, Sean Michael Macdonald was taken into custody on charges related to False Identification as a Peace Officer.

The Austin Police Department Aggravated Assault Unit is urging individuals who may have had interactions with Macdonald while he represented himself as an Austin Police Officer to come forward. This appeal extends to instances where he verbally claimed to be a police officer, as well as situations where he took actions suggestive of being an Austin Police Officer.

Anyone with any information may submit a tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477.