open carry with copper star on belt

[whplanet]

Yesterday, I saw a man OC-ing in Dulles Town Center. He was in street clothes with his family (holding an infant in his hands, even). Next to his holster on his belt, there was a copper star. I wasn't close enough to see if there was anything written on it or if it was a real badge.

So, now I'm all curious. Was this an off-duty LEO at the mall with his family and OC-ing with his badge clearly visible to avoid being asked to leave (mall has a no OC or CC policy posted)? Was this just a citizen with a star meant to look like a badge? Can anyone shed light on this?

[Yarddawg]

There are a number of sites on the interwebs that sell carry badges. IMHO, NOT a good idea! Seems to easy to be arrested for impersonating an officer.

[Jakeiscrazy]

There are a number of sites on the interwebs that sell carry badges. IMHO, NOT a good idea! Seems to easy to be arrested for impersonating an officer.

+1 Sounds just plain silly off duty LEO or not.

[allingeneral]

Was he carrying a revolver in a bandalero holster? Maybe he was wearing his Cowboy Action Shooting get'up. YeeHaw!

[Chasbo00]

Did he have a sash as well?

[matthew03]

I would carry a Civil War saber on my gun belt before attempting to carry a CCP badge, just shows bad form to display a shield if you aren't LE.

[TheGearGuy]