A man claiming to be a police detective tried to get an adult novelty shop in Longmont, Colo., to give him free X-rated videos, saying he wanted to make sure the performers weren't underage, authorities said.

He made three tries within nine days last month and was turned down each time. The store manager called police after the third try.

Authorities said Monday the man showed a badge and left a business card from the Longmont police "age verification unit." Cmdr. Tim Lewis said there is no such unit.

"It was inventive on his part, I'll give him that," Lewis said.

The business card didn't have anyone's name on it, but the store gave officers surveillance video of the man. Police are on the lookout.