Security Guard Faces Felony Charges for Impersonating Edmonds Police Officer

Michael Scaletta Teates, a 49-year-old security guard working for the Salvation Army, has been charged with criminal impersonation and unlawful possession of a firearm after posing as an Edmonds police officer at multiple incidents in Bremerton. Wearing a uniform with police-style badges, body armor marked "POLICE" and "SWAT," and driving a vehicle equipped with blue police-style lights, Teates approached officers at an active crime scene and other locations, claiming ties to the Edmonds police and law enforcement experience. Bremerton police became suspicious after multiple encounters and confirmed his badge was a fake "Frankenbadge." Teates has a prior criminal record including assault, burglary, and a false bomb threat, leading prosecutors to request a high bail of $50,000 due to concerns about community safety and potential interference with justice. He pleaded not guilty and appeared confused during his bail hearing about release conditions. Defense attorneys noted his long-term community residence, but the judge emphasized the risks posed by his firearm possession and impersonation activities.