What is the classification of impersonating a peace officer?

Impersonating a peace officer is classified as a felony under California law. This classification reflects the seriousness of the offense, as it poses a direct threat to public safety and undermines trust in law enforcement. By impersonating a peace officer, an individual could exert authority over others and potentially engage in unlawful conduct, which can lead to severe consequences for those who are misled. The felony classification also means that if convicted, the individual could face significant penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines, which are designed to deter such behavior.

The other classifications, such as infraction, misdemeanor, or civil offense, do not encompass the gravity of the act of impersonating a peace officer, hence they are not applicable in this context. Infraction typically deals with minor violations lacking the potential for incarceration, while misdemeanors carry lesser penalties than felonies but still represent serious offenses. A civil offense pertains more to violations of civil law rather than criminal law, further differentiating it from the nature of impersonating a peace officer.