Full Notification

ESPD would like to warn the community about an old trick that thieves use that is often called the “flat tire scam.” ESPD has recently received two reports of the scam and unfortunately one of the victims lost thousands of dollars in cash. Here’s how it works:

The thieves (usually working in pair or more) will often loiter around bank parking lots and flatten the tire to the car of an unsuspecting victim. The victim will drive off and the suspect(s) will pretend to be a “good samaritan” and point out the flat tire. When the victim pulls over, the suspects will distract the person by offering to help fix the tire. When the victim is distracted by suspect #1, suspect #2 will steal items from the car.

This type of crime has been recently reported by other police agencies in So California.

ESPD reminds everyone to be aware of your surroundings when going to a bank or any other retail location. If a stranger tries to get your attention to tell you one of your tires is flat, be aware that you may be targeted for a scam. If you have to pull over, we recommend you stop in a safe public area. If you are leery of the “good samaritan” offering to help, protect your belongings and notify the local law enforcement agency that you think you are being scammed.

This is an old scam used by thieves and it appears to be making a comeback so be aware!