2 men arrested after allegedly impersonating officers, threatening people in Glendale

Two men were arrested for allegedly impersonating officers and threatening people in Glendale, authorities said.

The investigation began when a Violent Crime Interdiction Team officer found “questionable content” on social media, according to the Glendale Police Department.

The men, identified as Thomas Nickels, 22, and Alexander Alcantar, 21, were wearing “private security” clothing, police-style gear and carrying rifles as well as other equipment, police said.

Alcantar was employed by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office at the time of his arrest and has since been relieved of his duties, police confirmed.

Authorities noted the content showed the men violently chasing and threatening people.

Most of the “security” operations the men were participating in were underage drinking parties, desert parties and special events at gentlemen’s clubs. The two were also promoting underage drinking parties.

In fact, officers responded to an underage drinking party where “hundreds of kids” were present and found both of the men there.

Additionally, investigators located multiple victims who had Tasers, pistols and rifles pointed at them by the men.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story misidentified the person who was employed by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, based on information initially provided by the Glendale Police Department. The story was updated after Glendale police issued a correction.

Related

Tempe Police Department introduces new K9 named CashCalifornia man arrested in counterfeit currency case in western ArizonaArizona Sheriff’s Association expresses concern over Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s actionsStorms to continue in Valley with winds causing delays at Phoenix Sky HarborNew midtown Phoenix restaurant combines barbecue and seafood2-year-old boy dies after being pulled from pool at Phoenix home