AUSTIN — The Austin Police Department apprehended a man accused of impersonating an officer and flashing a stun gun at civilians in downtown Austin on April 13 for various counts.

Around 2 a.m., APD received multiple 911 reports regarding a guy allegedly pointing a stun gun at people near West Sixth and Nueces Streets.

When cops arrived, they discovered a guy, later identified as 35-year-old Jason M. Parnell, who resembled the description supplied by witnesses.

According to APD, witnesses reported seeing him “exhibiting erratic and threatening behaviour and [using a stun gun] on people as they walked by.”

Officers arrested Parnell and discovered a BB gun in his waistband. When they searched his car, they discovered a stun gun and rifle magazines.

According to online court documents, Parnell was arrested on April 13, the same day the incident occurred.

Parnell faces several counts in this case:

• Two counts of terrorist threat.
• Criminal mischief.
• Imitating a Public Servant

According to Travis County Court records, Parnell has no prior charges.

KXAN has contacted Parnell’s attorney and will update this story whenever we receive a comment.

“The Austin Police Department takes incidents like these very seriously. The suspect’s actions, which included threatening violence, firing a BB gun at an occupied vehicle, and purposely damaging private property, constitute a clear threat to public safety and are highly troubling, according to an APD statement. “This behaviour undermines the public’s trust in legitimate law enforcement and can create confusion, fear, and hesitation when individuals encounter real officers.”

According to online court records, Parnell was released on bond with the condition that he stay away from the 700 Block of West Sixth Street and not possess firearms, including BB guns, or ammunition. These papers also mention that he must undergo mental health assessments.