Photo: Evidence seized during search warrants | Courtesy of Santa Cruz Police Department
On December 22nd Santa Cruz PD Officers arrested a suspect identified as Damian Vela (19) for allegedly issuing fake parking tickets around the city.
The arrest came after Officer’s received reports of someone issuing fake citations on parked vehicles near beach areas where tourists and locals frequently visit. These citations were issued on December 21st and had a QR code on them that took victims to a payment website.
It is unknown how many citations were issued at this time.
Vela admitted to the crimes when confronted by Officer’s. He has denied ever receiving a payment. Evidence was confiscated from the suspect’s vehicle in relation to the crimes.
Vela was booked into a local jail on charges of unlawful use of a computer and attempted fraud.
Officer’s are looking for any additional victims of Vela’s scam. If you or someone you know thinks you may have received a fraudulent ticket please contact the Investigation Unit of the Santa Cruz PD at (831)420-6100 or visit the parking office at 124 Locust Street.
