Note to CopTalk Readers – This is an isolated case but the fact it is in the news will lead to others that try to catch you in this scam:
Auto – Pedestrian Scam Alert
The Folsom Police Department wants to make the public aware of a scam targeting motorists.
On February 10, 2009 at approx 11:30 am, an unidentified white male adult, age 20s-30s, 6’01" to 6’02", 220 lbs to 250 lbs, balding, and dressed in all black clothing was seen laying behind a parked car in the parking lot of 370 Plaza Drive. When the man was seen by a customer he got up and ran away. About two hours later, a similar male subject was seen laying down in the street in the area of Wales Drive and Riley Street as a motorist was pulling out of the parking lot. A third incident happened at 5:40 pm at the Folsom Premium Outlets. A male subject matching the description from previous incidents was seen positioning himself under the driver’s side tires of a parked car alleging the motorist had hit him. When he pounded on her window she sounded her horn and called the police. The male was seen running away into the Outlets.
"We believe this is a classic attempt to stage an automobile–pedestrian collision in order to collect money from the motorist in lieu of filing an insurance claim," said Lt. Sheldon Sterling. "There have been no reported attempts to grab any of the motorists and he has not threatened to harm anyone."
We encourage people to continue to be aware of their surroundings. Have your keys in hand and check the area around your car as you approach it. If you see anyone, or anything, suspicious around your vehicle, call 911.
Anyone with information about who this subject may be, or sees someone acting suspicious and matching the description is encouraged to call the Folsom Police Department at (916) 930-1098.
