DistantNews
Support us
🇪🇨 Ecuador /Crime & Justice

Man arrested for TikTok police impersonation freed by judge

From El Comercio · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • A man detained for impersonating a police officer using AI was released by a judge who found insufficient evidence for prosecution.
  • The judge ruled that simply wearing a uniform does not constitute the crime of usurping public functions without performing official acts.
  • Despite his release, the man faces further investigations for allegedly deceiving women online and accepting money, and a restraining order was issued against him.

A man who gained notoriety on TikTok for using artificial intelligence to pose as an attractive police officer has been released from custody. Alex Manuel V. O. was arrested on June 29, 2026, after a report that he was following a young woman near the State University of the South of Manabí in Jipijapa.

During his hearing, the judge determined there was insufficient evidence to prosecute Alex Manuel V. O. for using a police uniform. The magistrate explained that Ecuadorian law requires more than just wearing a uniform to establish the crime of usurping public functions. The law stipulates that the individual must perform acts characteristic of an authority, such as detaining citizens or issuing orders. The prosecution failed to present evidence that Alex Manuel V. O. had engaged in such actions. Furthermore, officers did not find any credentials or forged documents identifying him as a member of the National Police.

Following his release, Alex Manuel V. O. broadcasted live on TikTok, denying the accusations and announcing his intention to take legal action. "It's all lies. I will take legal action against public servants in Jipijapa," he stated. However, his legal situation remains open as the National Police are investigating him for impersonating an officer to gain women's trust on social media. Several alleged victims reported sending money to the suspect after he requested financial assistance.

A young woman also reported receiving threats against her and her family after meeting Alex Manuel V. O. online, where he used the name "Shaggy" and had over 16,000 followers. As a protective measure, the judge prohibited him from approaching or contacting the complainant and her family. The Attorney General's Office continues to investigate the case for alleged intimidation. If Alex Manuel V. O. violates judicial orders, authorities can order his re-arrest.

It's all lies. I will take legal action against public servants in Jipijapa.

— Alex Manuel V. O.Following his release, Alex Manuel V. O. stated his intention to take legal action against public servants.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Comercio in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog