CLEARWATER BEACH — A Lakeland man was arrested on Independence Day after police said he used flashing lights and an emergency siren to move through heavy traffic on the Memorial Causeway while trying to reach a fishing charter.
According to a Clearwater Police Department arrest affidavit, a police sergeant was driving an unmarked cruiser westbound on the causeway early Saturday morning, July 4, when he heard an emergency vehicle siren approaching from behind.
The sergeant reportedly saw a black SUV with pinkish-colored flashing lights mounted in the grille and on the dashboard. Police said the lights could be mistaken for red emergency lights and that motorists moved to both sides of the roadway, allowing the SUV to travel through the center of the traffic jam.
The vehicle was stopped near 289 Memorial Causeway.
Police identified the driver as 40-year-old Reginald James Cannon of Lakeland. Cannon reportedly told the officer that he owns a funeral home.
After being advised of his rights, Cannon allegedly acknowledged that motorists were moving out of his way because they believed he was a law enforcement officer, according to the affidavit. He reportedly told police he was stuck in traffic and trying to reach a fishing charter.
Cannon was arrested on a felony charge of falsely personating a law enforcement officer. His bond was set at $5,000.
The allegations remain subject to review in court, and Cannon is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.