California, Hostage Scams

California Drivers Warned of Spike in Vehicle Hostage Scams
Authorities are warning California drivers about a rise in vehicle hostage scams, where scammers demand money to release towed or impounded cars. The scam has become prevalent in Southern California,
16 arrested in alleged auto insurance fraud scheme; California officials warn of ‘vehicle hostage’ scams
Investigators discovered that a non-sworn employee of the California Highway Patrol, Rosa Isela Santistevan, 56, of Irvine, allegedly was selling traffic collision reports.
California Officials Warn of Tow Truck Scam Targeting Crash Victims
An organized ring in the Inland Empire is accused of towing vehicles to a body shop and demanding excessive fees for release.
Vehicle hostage scams on the rise in Southern California, officials warn: What you need to know
The Department of Insurance is warning drivers about a vehicle hostage scam sweeping SoCal. Authorities have investigated multiple cases, leading to charges against 16 individuals. You are urged not to sign any documents until you have talked to your insurance company.
California drivers warned about predatory towing scam sweeping across state
They say that tow truck companies are targeting drivers involved in collisions, picking up their cars and then holding them hostage for large amounts of money.
‘Rampant’ tow truck scam targeting Southern California drivers, officials say
Officials at the California Department of Insurance are warning Southland residents of a “vehicle hostage” scam involving tow truck companies targeting motorists involved in traffic accidents.
State officials warn of predatory towing scam targeting drivers just in collisions
Lauren Pozen details a new scam targeting drivers who were just involved in crashes that need their cars towed and what you should do if the same thing happens to you.
LA Tow Truck Crime Ring That Held Crashed Cars Hostage Busted by Police
Officials charged 16 people who reportedly made a total of $217,000 by scamming accident victims in the LA area.
Repairer Driven News1d
Alleged bandit towing ring charged in Southern California
The California Department of Insurance has issued a public service announcement warning drivers in the state about increased ...
CBS News18d
Brooklyn man says auto repair shop held his car hostage, racked up thousands in tickets
Do you have a story that needs investigating? Let us know. NEW YORK -- A Brooklyn man says his car was held hostage by an auto repair shop for more than a year and a half, and it racked up ...
Nottingham Post20d
Two common used car scams motorists need to be aware of
A motoring expert has issued a stark warning to those in the market for a used car, highlighting two widespread scams. With the cost of second-hand cars recently dropping, many motorists are ...