Man Impersonating U.S. Marshal Arrested After Running Red Light: Derry Wayne Lambert Faces Years in Federal Prison

Accident – Death – Obituary News : MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A man from Central Florida is facing the possibility of spending several years in federal prison after pleading guilty to impersonating law enforcement. The incident occurred in Marion County, specifically at the Marathon Gas Station on U.S. Highway 301 in Summerfield, on July 31.

According to an incident report, a Marion County deputy was in the process of refueling their patrol car when they heard the sound of an unfamiliar siren approaching the intersection at U.S. Highway 42. The deputy watched as a black GMC pickup truck, traveling northbound on U.S. 301, passed several vehicles on the right shoulder, despite them being stopped at a red light.

The truck in question was equipped with flashing red and blue lights and continued through the intersection while the signal remained red. This raised suspicions for the deputy at the gas station, as there were no priority calls for service in the area at that time that would require such a response. The deputy decided to stop fueling and approached the truck.

The driver of the truck was identified as 52-year-old Derry Wayne Lambert from Belleview. Lambert was wearing a black hat with the words “Police U.S. Marshal” and a Department of Justice seal on it. He was also holding a gold badge that read “U.S. Marshal Service.” When asked where he was going, Lambert claimed to be heading to a shooting in the Marion Oaks area. However, when questioned about his missing driver’s side mirror, Lambert said it had been shot out the previous night while he was working a call in Marion Oaks.

Lambert failed to produce credentials from the U.S. Marshal Service that had his name and picture on them. He claimed he had left them at home in his other vehicle. As a result, a deputy U.S. Marshal from the sheriff’s office responded to the scene to interview Lambert. During the interview, Lambert admitted to activating the lights in his truck to enter the intersection.

However, the actual deputy U.S. Marshal noticed that Lambert was unable to provide answers to basic questions that a U.S. Marshal should know, such as his assignment location and current job assignment. It was determined that Lambert was not affiliated with the U.S. Marshal Service, and he was subsequently arrested for false impersonation of a law enforcement officer, unlawful use of a badge, and unlawful use of blue lights.

Further investigation led to the discovery of a .380 caliber pistol in Lambert’s truck, resulting in an additional charge of possession of a firearm while committing a felony. Additionally, a hidden compartment was found in Lambert’s wallet, containing seven pills identified as the anti-anxiety drug diazepam. Lambert was charged with possession of a controlled substance without a prescription and smuggling contraband into a prison.

The State Attorney’s Office announced on Thursday that Lambert pleaded guilty to false impersonation of a federal officer. As a result, he could face a maximum sentence of three years in federal prison.

This incident serves as a reminder that impersonating law enforcement is a serious offense with severe consequences. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office advises citizens to be cautious and vigilant when encountering individuals claiming to be law enforcement officers. It is important to verify their credentials and contact local authorities if there are any suspicions.

The case of Derry Wayne Lambert highlights the need for public awareness and continued efforts to combat impersonation crimes. By staying informed and remaining cautious, individuals can help maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of law enforcement agencies..