COOLBAUGH TOWNSHIP, PA – A gated community’s private security force is pulling over drivers with flashing red lights and sirens—and a Monroe County resident says it’s illegal.

The controversy at A Pocono Country Place has sparked a legal showdown that could have implications for HOA security operations across the Poconos.

The Traffic Stops

Resident Mr. Ertle says he was pulled over twice in two days by APCP Public Safety Officers using red lights and sirens on Country Place Drive.

On August 9, 2025, Officer Snyder allegedly stopped Ertle’s vehicle around 5:50 p.m. When Ertle asked what legal authority permitted the stop, Snyder reportedly cited “PA 235″—a law governing lethal weapons certification for security guards, not traffic enforcement.

The following evening, a female officer made a similar stop, this time claiming “EVOC certification” (emergency vehicle operations training) gave her authority to use the lights.

Ertle captured both encounters on video.

What the Law Says

Pennsylvania law is clear: only authorized emergency vehicles operated by police, fire departments, or certified EMS may use red lights and sirens.

Under 75 Pa.C.S. § 4571, unauthorized use carries fines of $500 to $1,500 per incident. And 18 Pa.C.S. § 4912 makes impersonating a public servant—including law enforcement—a misdemeanor.

Act 235 certifies security guards to carry firearms. It does not grant police powers.

Who Knew What?

This is where it gets murky.

Ertle says a Monroe County 911 dispatcher told him the stops were permitted. He also claims Pocono Mountain Regional Police acknowledged awareness of the practice but turned hostile when he pressed for answers on camera.

He has since filed dozens of private criminal complaints seeking charges against multiple security officers, supervisors, and the property owners association.

The DA Responds

District Attorney Mike Mancuso addressed the controversy publicly, noting that a resident “wanted several security officers, their supervisors, and the property owner’s association charged with a number of crimes claiming that they are improperly exercising police powers by conducting traffic stops and using equipment like red and blue lights and radar.”

The DA’s office has not announced whether charges will be filed.

The Bigger Question

A Pocono Country Place is home to more than 4,400 residents. Critics say the POA, led by Cathleen Dunn, continues to allow security to conduct these stops despite being put on legal notice.

But the implications extend beyond one gated community. Monroe County has dozens of HOAs and private developments. If APCP’s security practices go unchallenged, could other communities follow suit?

What do you think? Should private security in gated communities have the authority to conduct traffic stops? Is this about keeping residents safe—or crossing a line? Drop your thoughts in the comments.