Clinton Township man accused of impersonating firefighters – Macomb Daily

Jason Barnes allegedly posed as a fire chief and a firefighter in separate incidents, according to Clinton Township police. (MACOMB COUNTY JAIL PHOTO)

A 47-year-old Clinton Township man was arrested for impersonating firefighters on two occasions.

It is alleged that on May 5, Jason Edward Barnes went to the scene of a homicide with a badge and identified himself as a fire captain and attempted to enter the home while an investigation into a death was in progress. It is also alleged that on May 28, Barnes attended a fire investigation in firefighter's gear with a badge and spoke with officers at the scene.

Barnes was charged with impersonating a firefighter/emergency medical services personnel, a two-year felony, and illegal use of fire emblems/logos, a 93-day misdemeanor. He was also charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, both felonies punishable by up to five years, and impersonating a firefighter/emergency medical services personnel , a two-year felony.

Additionally, he is charged as a habitual fourth offender.

The investigation into Barnes is ongoing and additional charges may be possible.

Barnes was arraigned in 41B District Court, where Magistrate Ryan Zemke set bail at $250,000 cash/surety only. A probable cause hearing is scheduled for July 2 at 1 p.m. before Judge Carrie Fuca.

Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said impersonating a public safety officer is not something to take lightly and could compromise serious police and fire investigations.

“These actions not only disrupt investigations, but could contaminate crime scenes and pose a risk to public safety,” Lucido said.