Police Poseurs Targeting Undocumented Immigrants Arrested; Victims and Witnesses Sought
POMONA – An investigation into a series of robberies committed under the guise of a police officer’s uniform has been in progress since early December. The investigation led to the arrest of Andres Sanchez (20) of Ontario, and a name-withheld juvenile (17), for following undocumented immigrants in a sedan outfitted with red and blue lights, stopping them, inquiring about their immigration status and then robbing them under the threat of deportation.
The police impersonators wore police clothing, visibly displayed police equipment on their belts, demanded money from victims, and threatened to call ICE regarding deportation if victims did not hand over cash.
Immediate investigations into the incidents by Pomona PD Robbery Detectives through surveillance and investigative techniques brought a quick ID of the suspects. Pomona Officers made arrests this week in nearby Fontana, where the poseurs had just committed a similar robbery.
Investigative Services Division Captain Michael Ellis announced, “Incidents such as these are a high priority to the Pomona Police Department. Having someone committing robberies under the guise of a police officer is not only dangerous for the victims, but it erodes the public’s trust of real police officers, which we work very hard to protect.”
The Pomona Police Department is seeking additional victims and witnesses regarding this series of robberies. If you were a victim, or if you were a witness, you are urged to contact Det. Chris Blank at (909) 802-7462.
