Man impersonates being firefighter for free food, drinks | Crime

St. Petersburg, Florida -- A man was arrested at his Clearwater home Wednesday morning on charges he impersonated a firefighter so he could get free food and drinks at various locations, including All Children's Hospital.

St. Pete Police say 22-year-old Robert Spalla represented himself to employees at All Children's Hospital as a firefighter who has been with the St. Pete Fire Department for the past five years.

During their interactions with Spalla, hospital employees told police he would ask for special privileges such as food vouchers or gas cards.

Police say Spalla has never been employed as a firefighter in the state of Florida. When he was questioned by detectives, Spalla reportedly admitted to the crime and said he often used the fake title to get free food and drinks at local businesses in Pinellas County.