UPDATED Illinois man arrested after allegedly impersonating Sammy Hagar

UPDATE: 3:36 PM 10/22/2025

Police in Mount Vernon, Illinois have been in touch with our newsroom and have shared that they have no such person in custody.

Many of the original sources we cited have since removed their coverage.

It appears this story may be an internet hoax that was run with by several major media outlets prior to our picking it up, and if so they fooled us as well.

Be careful out there on the internet folks.

Police in Mount Vernon, Illinois, say they took a local man into custody after he allegedly posed as “Red Rocker” Sammy Hagar and attempted to open a bank account in the rock star’s name. The suspect, identified in reports as Ronnie Putnam, was detained following visits to multiple area businesses, including banks.

What Happened

Alleged scheme: The man claimed to be Sammy Hagar and allegedly tried to open a bank account under Hagar’s name.
Taken into custody: Local TV news reported he visited several area businesses, including two banks, before being detained.

Who Was Arrested

Name reported: Ronnie Putnam. Authorities’ materials referenced by Yahoo included a police photo and name.

Where and When

Location: Mount Vernon, southern Illinois.
Timing: Reports referencing the police announcement were posted during the week of October 20–22, 2025.

Possible Charges and Next Steps

Police and initial reports emphasized the impersonation and attempted account opening. As of publication, specific formal charges and court dates had not been detailed in the cited coverage. Additional updates from Mount Vernon Police or local courts are expected as filings become public.

Why It Matters

Celebrity impersonation fraud: Posing as a public figure to obtain goods, services, or financial access is a classic form of identity-based fraud, and banks are a frequent target. This incident underscores the continuing need for enhanced ID verification and staff training at retail branches.

What Sammy Hagar Has Said About the Man Impersonating Him

No statement from Sammy Hagar or his representatives was included in the initial reports. If one is issued, it would likely appear on Hagar’s official channels or through a publicist and will be added in an update.