A St. Petersburg man with more law enforcement gear than an entire detective squad was arrested for illegally posing as a security guard, according to police.
- Investigation began two months ago, according to police
- Investigators found weapons, uniforms in suspect's mobile home
- Possibility exists suspect may have also impersonated police
St. Petersburg Police spokesperson Yolanda Fernandez said their investigation into Harry Hoang, 28, began with a tip two months ago.
“He was trying to pass himself off as a security guard,” said police spokeswoman Yolanda Fernandez. “He has no license.”
Armed with a warrant on Tuesday, police searched the mobile home Hoang shares with his parents, and seized bags full of evidence.
Police said they found dozens of weapons, both real and fake, as well as police radios, uniforms, K-9 vests, badges, an emergency light, handcuff keys, tasers and a shield.
“I mean you name it, he looked official,” Fernandez said. “I had one detective tell me that he probably had more police equipment in his mobile home than our entire detective squad has.”
Neighbors said they thought Hoang was a security guard because they frequently saw him in uniform and driving a car with lights on it.
“He runs lights and we don’t know what he’s doing,” said neighbor Peggy Blankenship. “It’s scary to know he’s right here in our park.”
Fernandez said they believe Hoang may have also impersonated a police officer. Investigators are asking anyone who has come into contact with him to call the St. Petersburg Police Department.
“We’re appealing to the public -- if anyone hired him thinking that he had a legitimate security company, please contact us,” she said. “We definitely want to speak to you.”