File photo.<\/p>\n
PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. (EYT) \u2014 A traffic stop for a lack of insurance led to criminal charges after a driver allegedly lied about his identity to a state trooper.<\/p>\n
According to the criminal complaint, the driver was 42-year-old Michael Kevin Altman, of New Bethlehem.<\/p>\n
Trooper Collin Wilson stopped a white Ford SUV on January 31 at a Uni-Mart on West Mahoning Street in Punxsutawney. The trooper said the vehicle did not have valid insurance. Altman allegedly told the trooper he did not have his license.<\/p>\n
According to the affidavit, Altman intentionally identified himself as his brother. The brother later contacted police after receiving a citation in the mail. He reportedly told police that Altman used his identity to avoid warrants.<\/p>\n
The complaint stated Altman sent a text to his brother during the stop. He requested the brother\u2019s social security number and address. The brother provided the information without knowing the reason, the affidavit said.<\/p>\n
Altman was later found at the Clarion County Jail on other warrants. He allegedly told a relative he \u201clied to a cop\u201d to avoid arrest. The affidavit said Altman later admitted to using a fake name because he was nervous about a drug deal.<\/p>\n
Altman faces misdemeanor charges of hindering apprehension, false identification, and several traffic offenses.<\/p>\n
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 7 at 10:15 a.m.. Magisterial District Judge Jacqueline J. Mizerock will preside over the case.<\/p>\n
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