Brooklyn Park, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — A 62-year-old man from Brooklyn Park is now facing criminal charges after he allegedly pretended to be a police officer in order to receive discounts at a Chipotle restaurant—and even made threatening remarks to staff who refused his request.
According to a criminal complaint filed in Hennepin County, the incidents occurred between January 31 and February 25, 2025, at a Chipotle location in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota.
The suspect, later identified as George Howland Jackson Sr., reportedly entered the restaurant twice during that timeframe. In both visits, he claimed to be a law enforcement officer, flashed a badge, and requested a discount on his food order.
During the first encounter, when the employee declined his request, the man allegedly warned the worker to “watch out” while driving, stating he was a police officer.
During the second incident, the man was again denied the discount. He later left the restaurant in a blue Chevrolet Impala, which was traced back to Jackson, who matched the employee’s description.
When contacted by authorities, Jackson admitted he had been at the restaurant but denied claiming to be a police officer. Shortly after police made contact, the Chipotle employee received a phone call from a woman, who questioned why police had shown up at her home. According to the complaint, the woman defended Jackson, claimed he was a former officer, and threatened to call immigration authorities on the employee and others at the restaurant.
Law enforcement confirmed through state and national databases that Jackson is not, and has never been, a licensed peace officer in Minnesota or elsewhere.
He has now been charged with:
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One misdemeanor count of Impersonating a Peace Officer
This charge carries a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both. Jackson has been summoned to appear in court at a later date.
Did you know?
Impersonating a peace officer is a crime in all 50 states, even if no physical harm occurs.
Under Minnesota law, displaying a fake badge and making threatening statements can still result in criminal charges, even without impersonating in an official capacity.
False representation of authority in private businesses may escalate to federal concerns if intimidation or civil rights violations occur.
The case remains under legal review by Hennepin County prosecutors.
I’m Chris Harper, and I’m reporting for TRF News.