A teen with a badge and handcuffs is being accused of impersonating an officer, but he says it is a misunderstanding.

A Delaware County teenager is being accused of impersonating a law enforcement officer at a community park.

Dylan Benjamin, 18, was called before a judge this week for allegedly calling himself a police officer. A police report obtained by 10TV says Benjamin approached a man at Blue Limestone Park last week, showing a badge and handcuffs. It claims Benjamin stated he was with a Delaware Police Department and was investigating juveniles that were selling drugs.

Dylan Benjamin

Benjamin denied the claims to 10TV News.

“I had my badge and handcuffs with me, but I didn't pose and say that I was Delaware city police,” added Benjamin.

Benjamin says he ordered the cuffs online a few years ago for role-playing competitions with friends and has a badge from when he was in fire service school. He says this incident started with a personal dispute between him and someone else.

"And I just wanted to call and get it reported, and I knew that he was going to be at Blue Limestone Park at the time. So, I was waiting there, and I just had asked the gentleman if had saw him, if he was already there and left. And I guess, he took it as I said that I was Delaware city police."

Even though it appears Benjamin was just asking questions, authorities are looking into the claims.

Delaware Police say anyone falsely claiming to be law enforcement is a serious matter. Capt. Adam Moore says a legitimate officer should have no problem providing their credentials.

“Police officers typically always carry a badge and photo identification, so you could ask the police officer for their photo ID. If conditions warrant it, you could also contact your local dispatch center and inquire whether or not a police officer is out there,” said Moore.