Man charged with posing as trooper pulled over drivers in wicomico

Man charged with posing as trooper pulled over drivers in Wicomico

by
August 6, 2025
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SALISBURY, MD – Maryland State Police are asking for the public’s help in their investigation of a 19-year-old Salisbury man accused of posing as a trooper and conducting illegal traffic stops earlier this year.

Jayden Ballard was served a criminal summons on February 12 and charged with impersonating a police officer and unlawful taking of a motor vehicle. Investigators believe he gained access to a marked Maryland State Police vehicle and operated it throughout Wicomico County while wearing a state police uniform.

Man charged with posing as trooper pulled over drivers in wicomico
Photo: man charged with posing as trooper pulled over drivers in wicomico

Authorities say Ballard allegedly conducted unlawful traffic stops during that time. They are now asking anyone who may have been stopped or interacted with him to contact Senior Trooper Garrett Dick at Garrett.Dick@Maryland.gov or by calling 410-749-3101.

The investigation remains active.

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Key Points

  • Jayden Ballard, 19, of Salisbury, was charged with impersonating a police officer and unlawful taking of a vehicle.
  • Investigators say he drove a marked state police vehicle while wearing a uniform and conducting illegal traffic stops.
  • Authorities are asking anyone who interacted with him to contact Maryland State Police.

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News