MADERA COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) - The person who faked a letter from Madera County's Sheriff Tyson Pogue about gunfire on New Year's Eve could be facing some criminal consequences, according to the Madera County Sheriff's Office. The letter, allegedly distributed to homes in the Madera Ranchos community, falsely that the sheriff had given a volunteer "permission to cite you $2500.00" for shooting guns on New Year's Eve. The letter, dated Dec. 26, stated that a uniformed patrol volunteer would be placed on Paula Road to ensure that the no-shooting request was enforced. Falling bullet hits firefighter’s truck in Fresno: ‘This is pretty crazy’ According to the Madera County Sheriff's Office, the author of the fraudulent correspondence could be facing time behind bars: under California Penal Code § 538d and California Penal Code § 472, the use of the Sheriff's Office logo alone is considered a misdemeanor, with penalties including up to one year in jail. Officials say attempting to utilize official law enforcement insignia as a means of intimidating citizens or threatening legal action is "a blatant violation of the law." Incidents like this undermine public trust in law enforcement and our ability to maintain positive, transparent relationships with our community. While it is perceptible this correspondence is not on official letterhead, the severity of its implications is not lessened. Madera County Sheriff’s Office  Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue says having his name included in the letters is also concerning. “I am troubled by the use of my name and official position by this unknown person attempting to influence residents in our community," Pogue said. "I value the integrity of my office and would never authorize this type of activity. Cases where law enforcement officials are impersonated are particularly concerning, and will not be tolerated." The Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to report any suspicious communications or further information about the fake letters by calling (559) 675-7770.