Former Police Officer Charged In Camden Robbery

CAMDEN, N.J., (CBS) – A former Camden City police officer has been charged in connection with a robbery, authorities announced on Wednesday.

Authorities say Richard Dayton, 45, of Haddon Township, allegedly used a police badge and radio to pose as a police officer and stop a pedestrian at 9th and Ferry Avenue Tuesday morning. Dayton is accused of showing the pedestrian the badge and taking money from the victim.

Authorities say Dayton fled in a pickup truck, which has been identified as a Camden County Police Department vehicle.

Dayton retired on a disability pension as a Camden City Police Officer in 2005. He is currently a civilian employee of the Camden County Police Department responsible for the department's fleet management.  His position allows him access to police vehicles.

According to investigators, police retrieved video that corroborated the victim's account and identified Dayton as the suspect.

Authorities say Dayton has been suspended without pay from his job with the intent to dismiss pending the resolution of these accusations.

Dayton was charged with 2nd degree Robbery and Official Misconduct and is being held on $50,000 bail.