Full Notification

Early this morning, just after midnight, San Leandro Police received a report from a motorist stating that he had just been "pulled over" by another vehicle impersonating a police officer.
 
The victim stated that around 12:20 a.m., he was driving south in the 2100 block of Bancroft Ave. in his personal vehicle. The victim stated that another vehicle passed him in the opposite direction, but quickly made a U-turn and drove in behind the victim. Suddenly the victim stated that he saw "red and blue" flashing lights and heard a siren. Believing he was being pulled over by a police officer, the motorist immediately pulled to the curb.
 
The victim watched in his rearview mirror as the driver of the other vehicle exited and began walking towards his vehicle. The victim driver stated that the suspect was young, dressed in plain clothes and did not appear to be a police officer. The driver feared for his safety and immediately accelerated away, calling 9-1-1 at the same time. The impersonating vehicle also fled the area.
 
SLPD officers in the area began searching for the suspect vehicle which was described as a silver Ford Crown Victoria. A short time later, a neighboring police agency located the suspect vehicle occupied in the area of 159th Ave. in unincorporated San Leandro.
 
Four occupants were detained, including a 15 yr-old unlicensed driver. The victim driver was able to positively identify the suspect vehicle and the 15 yr-old male as the suspect. In addition to the suspect being arrested, a 19 yr-old adult male occupant was also arrested for contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The other two juvenile occupants were released to their parents.
 
“We are thankful that these subjects were located so quickly,” said Lieutenant Isaac Benabou. “The real police work of stopping vehicles is an extremely dangerous task and should not be considered as fun. These individuals not only placed the motorist at harm but themselves too.”
 
No weapons or other police equipment were found inside of the suspect's vehicle. It is believed that the suspects may have used a smartphone application that simulated flashing lights and sounds.
 
As a general safety tip, if you feel that you are being pulled over by someone other than Law Enforcement, drive slowly with your hazard lights flashing to a well-lit and occupied area and call 9-1-1 if necessary.