Thousand Oaks City Watch Informational Alert - 3/27/08

Here is the latest "City Watch" alert from Deputy Jim DeSoto of the Thousand Oaks Police Department. If you are interested in receiving these updates directly from him via email, click here for more information.

City Watchers,

Another type of scam is occurring. As is typical, the con artists seem likable and prey on your generosity.

A Hispanic adult male approached the victim and offered to fix the scratches and dings on the victim’s vehicle for a “special price.” The suspect presented the victim a business card with the name of ‘Leo.’ The business card was authentic. The victim gave the suspect money and then told the victim that he needed additional money for a special paint pen so the colors would match. Additional money was given, the suspect left, and never returned.

Two points that are of interest regarding this case: 1) the victim was approached in her driveway as she returned home; hence, the suspect targeted the victim and 2) the suspect had two children in his vehicle, a 6yr old and a 8yr old. Obviously, someone with children never commit a crime. It is only a ploy to bring your guard down!

The real ‘Leo’ owns an auto repair business and he left his business cards at a Calabasas Service Station in order to generate business. Unfortunately, his decision stimulated business for the crooks. This exact scam using Leo’s business cards has been perpetrated from Orange County to Santa Barbara.

These people usually do not work and all they do is think how they can scam and cheat you out of your hard earned pay. Scams come in different forms and obviously the adage “If it is too good to be true…” is very relevant. If someone is soliciting you for your business, whether it is a magazine subscription or auto body repair, say no thank you and end the contact. When someone comes looking for you on their own and the bottom line is he or she want your money, well, that is not a good scenario.

Have a tremendous weekend and spread the word. Jim