News Summary
A 54-year-old man, arrested in Philadelphia, is accused of impersonating a law enforcement officer during a robbery in Northeast Philadelphia. Wearing a tactical vest and claiming to be from ICE, he allegedly zip-tied a female employee and stole around $1,000. Witnesses reported his alarming behavior, prompting fears among employees. Following the incident, police are investigating Rosado’s activities and motive, stressing the dangers of such impersonation crimes and their impact on community trust.
Philadelphia Man Arrested for Impersonating Law Enforcement Officer During Robbery
Philadelphia police have arrested Robert Rosado, a 54-year-old man, for impersonating a law enforcement officer during a robbery that took place on June 8, 2025. Rosado was apprehended on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, following an investigation into the incident, which occurred in the Mayfair neighborhood of Northeast Philadelphia.
The robbery transpired around 2:10 p.m. at a business located on the 6400 block of Harbison Avenue. Authorities report that Rosado, wearing a black tactical vest labeled “Security Enforcement Agent” and a baseball cap adorned with an American flag, claimed to be an agent from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during the robbery.
As part of the alarming scenario, Rosado allegedly zip-tied a 50-year-old woman working behind the counter. He then demanded cash and made off with approximately $1,000. Witnesses noted that Rosado shouted “immigration,” prompting some employees to flee the establishment in fear. Following the robbery, he fled the scene in a white Ford E-250 van.
Police investigations indicate that Rosado was last seen heading north on Harbison Avenue towards Roosevelt Boulevard. The van he used for his escape was notably described as having no back window and padlocks on the rear and passenger side cargo doors.
Rosado is facing multiple charges, including impersonating a law enforcement officer, robbery, violation of the uniform firearms act, and theft by deception, among other related offenses. Authorities are continuing their investigation and urge anyone with additional information about the incident or Rosado’s whereabouts to come forward.
Details of the Incident
The robbery took place in a busy area, and the swift actions of the police have been crucial in apprehending the suspect shortly after the crime was committed. The disguise Rosado chose, complete with a tactical vest and the false ICE identification, adds complexity to the motives behind the crime.
Upon entering the business, Rosado’s initial impression as a law enforcement official may have contributed to creating an atmosphere of fear and confusion, which he apparently attempted to exploit to facilitate the robbery. The use of zip ties on the employee suggests premeditated planning rather than a spur-of-the-moment crime.
Background Context
Impersonating law enforcement officers to commit crimes is not only illegal but also poses a significant threat to public safety. Such acts can instill fear among community members and challenge the trust that individuals place in legitimate law enforcement agencies. In recent years, there have been discussions regarding the importance of training and equipping law enforcement to handle impersonation cases effectively. The community in Mayfair and surrounding areas may look for increased security measures and awareness programs in light of this incident.
As the investigation unfolds, the legal proceedings against Rosado will be closely monitored. The consequences he faces will serve as a reminder of the serious implications of impersonating a law enforcement officer and committing robbery under such false pretenses.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Police Search for Suspect Impersonating Officer in Robbery
Impersonation Incident Leads to Robbery in Philadelphia
Robbery at Philadelphia Car Repair Shop by Impersonator
Philadelphia Police Searching for Suspect in Armed Robbery
Additional Resources
- 6ABC: Philadelphia Man Charged
- Wikipedia: Impersonation of Law Enforcement Officers
- NBC Philadelphia: Fake Officer Arrested
- Google Search: Robbery Impersonating Law Enforcement
- CBS News: Robert Rosado Arrested
- Google Scholar: Law Enforcement Impersonation Crime
- Audacy: Robert Rosado Arrested
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Legal Impersonation
- Fox29: Victim Zip-Tied and Robbed
- Google News: Philadelphia Crime News
