Impersonating a police officer is a crime, and the specific penalties vary by jurisdiction. In California, it's a misdemeanor under Penal Code 538d PC with a potential sentence of up to one year in jail and a $2,000 fine, according to Shouse Law Group. Federal law also prohibits impersonating a police officer, with penalties including up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000, according to The Summary Law Firm