Sacramento Festival Attendees Report Fraudulent Towing Scheme and Damaged Vehicles

Key points

• Bruce Capagli and other attendees found their cars missing from a lot on Bercut Drive after attending the Aftershock festival.
• A temporary sign directed drivers to call a phone number, which led them to an address on Del Paso Boulevard linked to an auto body shop.
• Drivers were transported to an unmarked dirt field in a residential neighborhood to retrieve their vehicles.
• Preprinted receipts demanded a $562 fee for vehicle retrieval, omitting vehicle identification numbers and specific tow/release times.
• Capagli reported his vehicle was returned in undriveable condition, and his insurance company is treating the incident as a theft rather than a tow.
• The towing affidavit named Allied Universal as the requester, but the company denied any involvement or contract with towing services.

Background

This incident follows a pattern of consumer fraud in the region, including recent felony charges against tiny home co-founders for diverting customer payments. While unrelated to the Brier Creek break-ins or national health trends, the Sacramento case highlights ongoing concerns regarding unregulated services targeting event attendees.

Why it matters

The incident exposes potential gaps in local enforcement regarding towing regulations and consumer protection during large public events. The alleged use of forged affidavits and unmarked locations suggests a coordinated scheme that could affect other major gatherings in the area. It also raises questions about the reliability of insurance claims when vehicles are damaged during unauthorized towing operations.

What to watch

Investigations by CBS Sacramento and local authorities may lead to further scrutiny of J&B Towing’s licensing status. Affected drivers are likely to pursue insurance claims and legal action against the towing operation. The Sacramento County District Attorney may review the case for potential fraud charges if evidence of forgery is confirmed.