Tortious Impersonation of Law Enforcement Officers.
Philadelphia Code § 10-847
in effect§ 10-847. Tortious Impersonation of Law Enforcement Officers.
(1) Definitions. The following definitions shall apply to this Section:
(a) Law Enforcement Officer. Any “peace officer” as defined in 18 Pa. C.S. § 501 (relating to definitions), including but not limited to local, state or federal officers.
(2) No person shall falsely personate by uniform, insignia or otherwise any law enforcement officer.
(3) Private Right of Action. The City Solicitor or any individual aggrieved by a violation of this Section or any entity a member of which is aggrieved by a violation of this Section bring a civil action in a court of competent jurisdiction against a county, city, department or agency that employs a person violating this Section. The limitations period for a civil action brought pursuant to this Section shall be three (3) years from the date the complainant knew or should have known of the alleged violation.
(4) Remedies. A court of competent jurisdiction may order the following remedies:
(a) An order requiring the county, city, department or agency to cease and desist the unlawful practice;
(b) Payment of compensatory or punitive damages, provided that an aggrieved person shall make a reasonable effort to mitigate any damages;
(c) Payment of reasonable attorneys’ fees;
(d) Payment of court costs;
(e) Payment of a fine not to exceed two thousand dollars ($2,000) for each violation; and
(f) Other equitable relief.
(5) Severability. If any provision of this Section or application thereof to any person or circumstance is judged invalid, the invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of the Section which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this Section are declared severable.
Notes
317.5 | Added, Bill No. 260060 (became law May 8, 2026), effective July 7, 2026.
Source: City of Philadelphia, The Philadelphia Code and Home Rule Charter (American Legal Publishing, codelibrary.amlegal.com)URL: https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/philadelphia/latest/philadelphia_pa/0-0-0-309224Fetched: 10/27/2026