Arapaho, OK — A Butler man faces serious charges after being accused of impersonating a police officer and obstructing law enforcement in Custer County.

Buddy LaRue Sr., 77, was arrested on December 29, 2024, after reportedly driving a white Ford Taurus with police-style lights and decals that read "POLICE" on the back of the vehicle. According to the affidavit, LaRue was observed tailgating vehicles in the Walmart parking lot in Weatherford, prompting a 911 call from a concerned witness.

When law enforcement stopped the vehicle at the intersection of Eads and 8th Street, they noted the Taurus had no license plate but appeared to mimic the appearance of a legitimate police cruiser. LaRue allegedly claimed to be working for the Custer County Sheriff's Department’s narcotics group. However, further investigation revealed that LaRue had no connection to law enforcement.

Authorities allege that LaRue resisted requests for identification and instructions to step out of the vehicle, keeping his hands in his pockets during the encounter. Additional officers arrived on the scene and ultimately placed LaRue under arrest after a brief struggle.

The affidavit also states that LaRue made threatening remarks about a Custer County sheriff, claiming he would “beat his ass” when asked about his statements. LaRue was transported to the Weatherford Police Department, where he was booked on charges of impersonating a public officer, a felony, and obstructing an officer, a misdemeanor.

Police also interviewed the reporting witness, who described seeing the vehicle tailgating several others in the parking lot. The witness noted the vehicle’s resemblance to a real police car but expressed doubt about its legitimacy.

LaRue has no prior criminal history, according to the affidavit.

If convicted, LaRue could face up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine for the felony charge, in addition to penalties for the misdemeanor.