Quarrytown, PA – The son of a Princeton Municipal Court judge has been charged with impersonating a police officer, but he insists law enforcement is lying.
John Francis McCarthy IV, of Mantoloking, allegedly told Quarrytown police officers on February 15 that he was acting in an official law enforcement capacity. According to the criminal complaint, he claimed to be a volunteer with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and said he was investigating a drug case.
When officers asked for identification, McCarthy handed over an Uber driver business card and claimed he was working undercover to conduct a drug buy, police said.
Accusations of Intimidation
Authorities say McCarthy repeatedly posed as law enforcement, harassing and intimidating locals. According to the affidavit:
✔️ He told residents he was a cop
✔️ He pressured a pregnant store clerk to assist in a fake drug bust
✔️ When she backed out, he allegedly wished harm on her unborn child
Police later contacted a Lancaster City officer McCarthy claimed to be working with—who denied any knowledge of him.
McCarthy’s Defense
McCarthy denies all allegations, calling them a “twisted lie.” In emails to local media, he stated:
🗣️ “I HAVE NEVER claimed to be a government employee to anyone, anywhere, EVER.”
🗣️ He was legally assisting law enforcement, not impersonating them.
🗣️ His father, Judge John F. McCarthy III, taught him that civilians “have a right” to help police.
He also pointed to a recent crash investigation in Point Pleasant Beach, where he shared dashcam footage with police, as proof that he is a law-abiding citizen.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate McCarthy’s claims and behavior. If convicted, he could face serious legal consequences for impersonating an officer.
