BARTON COUNTY – Law enforcement authorities in Barton County are investigating burglary involving Great Bend police officer’s personal vehicle, according to a media release.

Although most of the items stolen were personally owned, a Great Bend Police badge was among the items taken.

The Police Department wants to make the public aware that this badge has been stolen, so that they may be wary of anyone who may try to impersonate an officer.

In addition to their badges, all Great Bend Police Officers are issued department identification cards, which they should be able to produce if you have questions about whether someone is truly a police officer.

The Police Department also reminds citizens that if they have questions about whether someone is truly an officer, they can also call the Police Department (793-4120) or Barton County Dispatch to confirm the person’s identity.

“Although we’d certainly like to recover this badge, the reality is that a determined impersonator could easily obtain a badge off the internet these days,” said Police Chief Cliff Couch.

“People should always use good judgment and trust their instincts before letting anyone into their house, sending money that someone says they owe, or any such compromising situation.”