A 23-year-old man has been arrested after impersonating a police officer at several hospitals, where he attempted to obtain sensitive information about individuals.

Reports surfaced late in the week about a man posing as an OPP officer complete with an authentic uniform.  He looked, talked, and acted like the genuine article and even carried a gun, which had both cops and hospital patrons more than a little concerned.

He visited a total of seven hospitals, and in all cases he asked for names of people who had been involved in fail to remain or hit-and-run accidents.

Images of the suspect were captured on one hospital's surveillance video though (pictured), and the pictures helped the real police sniff out the suspect from Ramara Township.

Kevin Nielson was arrested late Saturday without incident and has been charged with impersonating a police officer, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace, and possession of property obtained by crime.

He  was allegedly spotted at St. Michael's Hospital, The Hospital for Sick Children, and Trillium Health Centre in Mississauga among others. 

"It's extremely serious," admits Cst. Graham Williamson. "Something like this casts a dark shadow. It does make us look bad."

And while it appears this particular offender is under wraps, police warn that at any time an impersonator can pop up, and as always they're asking people to be alert.

So what should you do if you run into someone who ignites your own doubts?

A legitimate officer will show an official ID to any citizen who asks for it without complaint.

If you're still not sure, you can also call your local police division and check on the name.