HARNETT COUNTY, N.C. — Authorities in Harnett County believe a man posing as a detective swindled an elderly woman out of $900.

Annie Smith, 85, said the man came into her home and told her he was Det. Harris of the Fayetteville Police Department. She said he was wearing a suit and tie and even opened his jacket to show off a badge.

The man told Smith he needed information about her granddaughter.

Smith said the man then convinced her to give him $900, saying he needed to compare the cash with serial numbers from drug money.

Once Smith was distracted, she said the man took the cash and took off.

Smith's daughter, who was also home, said she became suspicious when she saw the man drive off in a new Lincoln Town Car.

Harnett County sheriff Larry Rollins said the phony officer could end up meeting some real ones soon.

"He just took advantage of the situation and it disgusts me even more to hear he posed as a police officer," Rollins said.

Smith said she had been saving for a new mattress and refrigerator.