MOUNT VERNON, Ill. (WTVO) — An Illinois man was taken into custody after allegedly impersonating rock legend Sammy Hagar at several area businesses, including two banks and a vape shop.
Police say Ronnie Putnam, 58, of Summersville, entered multiple establishments claiming to be “the real Red Rocker” and attempted to open accounts under the name Sammy Hagar Enterprises, LLC.
Witnesses say Putnam even performed a brief a cappella version of Hagar’s 1984 hit “I Can’t Drive 55” in an effort to prove his identity.
“He said he was on tour but needed to cash a royalty check,” a bank teller told police. “He was wearing red sunglasses and smelled faintly of margarita mix, so I thought it was actually him.”
Putnam was arrested on Oct. 18 after presenting a homemade ID card that read “Sammy Hagar, Rock God.” He faces charges of fraud and disorderly conduct.
When asked for comment during his arrest, Putnam reportedly shouted, “I can’t drive to jail!”
Authorities say no money was exchanged and no accounts were opened.
Ronnie Putnam allegedly tried to open a bank account in the name of rock musician Sammy Hagar. (MOUT VERNON POLICE PHOTO)
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