Richmond Man Arrested After Allegedly Kidnapping Woman and Impersonating Police Officer in Jackson County
JACKSON COUNTY, KENTUCKY — A 25-year-old Richmond man is facing a long list of serious charges after deputies say he kidnapped a woman, sexually assaulted her, and pretended to be a Richmond police officer during a disturbing incident early Saturday morning in McKee.
Deputies Respond After Reports of Woman in Distress
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were called around 3:30 a.m. on November 15 after reports of a woman in distress during a domestic situation. When deputies arrived, they made contact with Mark Bernardo, 25, and the female victim.
After questioning the individuals at the scene, investigators determined Bernardo had allegedly abducted the woman after physically and sexually assaulting her. Deputies say he initially presented himself as someone trying to “help” the victim.
According to the sheriff’s office:
“Deputies determined that Bernardo abducted the woman after physically and sexually assaulting her under the guise of assisting her.”
Suspect Claimed He Was a Richmond Police Officer
While officers were assessing the situation, authorities say Bernardo falsely claimed he was a Richmond Police Department officer. Deputies also reported noticing signs that he was under the influence of substances at the time of arrest.
The false claim of being an officer added another layer of concern for deputies, who immediately took him into custody once they verified the information.
Bernardo Faces Multiple Felony Charges
Bernardo was arrested and charged with the following offenses:
- First-degree unlawful imprisonment
- Impersonating a peace officer
- Operating a motor vehicle under the influence
- First-degree sexual abuse
- First-degree wanton endangerment
- Menacing
- Fourth-degree assault
He was transported to the Jackson County Detention Center, where he is being held on a $50,000 bond.
The sheriff’s office confirmed the investigation remains active as deputies gather evidence and interview additional witnesses.
As Jackson County investigators work to uncover the full details behind this troubling case, residents are encouraged to stay alert and report suspicious behavior immediately. For more updates on regional crime, safety alerts, and justice developments across Kentucky, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.