From Cleveland.com:

“A 39-year-old man flashed a Cleveland police badge and told an RTA train operator he didn’t have to pay the fare because he is “the f—–g commander,” according to a police report.”

“Philip Stryjewski boarded the train at Shaker Square about 6:25 p.m. Oct. 16. When he got on, he immediately flashed a Cleveland police badge.”

“RTA police found Stryjewski on the station’s platform. He admitted to flashing a badge. Officers repeatedly asked him where he worked. Stryjewski said he worked as a commander of security at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, and as an instructor at a private security agency.”

“An airport spokeswoman confirmed that Stryjewski is not an employee there.”

First of all, props to the train operator for even responding, let alone insisting the guy pony up. If a some dude comes up to me claiming to be the fucking commander, I’m certainly not going to ask him for money. But this is just a classic case of lying to cover up a lie. “I’m the commander.” “No you’re not.” “I’m a cop.” “No you’re not.” “I only have a $50 dollar bill.” “No you don’t.” “I work security at the airport.” NO YOU FUCKING DON’T BRO. It’s a good bid by the guy but I’d say once the badge bit fails, just pay the goddamn fare. There’s no way he couldn’t afford it because there’s no way a lady cop would be banging a homeless guy right? Cause spoiler alert, RTA investigators, that’s one million percent how he got this badge. She didn’t give him, idiots. The fucking commander takes what he wants.

PS “Because I’m the fucking commander” is going to be my only response to any “Why” questions for the next, oh, six months.