Man arrested for impersonating law enforcement officer and attacking McDonald’s manager in San Diego

A man is facing charges after police say he impersonated a law enforcement officer and assaulted a McDonald’s manager in San Diego.

The incident happened around noon Thursday at a restaurant in the 4200 block of Nobel Drive in University City. According to the San Diego Police Department, the suspect asked to speak with the manager before wrapping his arm around the man’s neck while claiming to be an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent.

The manager, Daniel Martinez, said the suspect grabbed him from behind and squeezed his neck before employees stepped in to help. After releasing his grip, Martinez said the man struck him in the face.

Witness video captured the confrontation as it unfolded inside the restaurant.

Employees told police they did not believe the man was affiliated with any law enforcement agency and recognized him as someone who had previously visited the location.

Police identified the suspect as 40-year-old Joshua Cobb. He was arrested on suspicion of impersonating a police officer and battery.

Martinez was not seriously injured. He said his focus during the incident was protecting his staff.

Authorities continue to investigate the case.

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