SACRAMENTO POLICE DEPARTMENT News Release
		Release #07-09-04 July 9, 2004 For Immediate Release
						Media Office 916-433-0808  Capt. Joe Valenzuela Sgt. Justin Risley, PIO Ofc. Michelle Lazark PIC Audrey Lee     Internet: www.sacpd.org

The Sacramento Police Department is asking the community to be aware of a vehicle buying scam.

There have been at least three incidents in Sacramento since May 2004, where a male Black answered newspaper want ads for used vehicles for sale.  When the suspect called the victims, he acted like an interested buyer, asking questions about the vehicle.  He would ask about the price on the telephone and even set up a times to test-drive the vehicles.  He told the victims that he had a cashier’s check and presented the victims with an authentic looking, counterfeit cashier’s check for the asking price that was discussed on the telephone.

During all of these crimes, when the victims attempted to cash the cashier’s check, the bank informed the victims that the checks were counterfeit.

Suspect description:  Male Black adult late 20’s early 30’s, 6’0”, 180-190 lbs, dark skin, round face, brown eyes, short, black afro or shaved head, thin athletic build

Safety tips:  When selling a vehicle, only accept cash or have the buyer meet you at the bank.  Obtain all legal documentation and make sure the release of liability is filled out properly prior to selling the car.  Complete the transaction during the daytime, and in a public place.  If you suspect that something is awry, call the police department.

Anyone with information regarding these crimes is asked to call Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP or (800) AA-CRIME.  Callers may remain anonymous and can earn up to a $1,000 reward.