Joint Operation Results in Recovery of 142 Unlawfully Impounded Vehicles NA25057ma

WHAT:
Press Conference

WHEN:
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
1:00 p.m.

WHERE:
LAPD Van Nuys Police Station Front steps
6240 Sylmar Avenue
Van Nuys, CA 91401

WHO:
Deputy Chief Marla Ciuffitelli, Operations Valley Bureau
Commander Elaine Morales, Operations Valley Bureau
Captain Karen Leong, Van Nuys Patrol Commanding Officer
Captain Francis Boateng, Commercial Crimes Division Commanding Officer
Captain Anthony Easter, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
Lieutenant Laurel Friedlander, Van Nuys Detective Commanding Officer
Lieutenant Joe Dominguez, California Highway Patrol
Detective III Guy Pereira, Van Nuys Auto Detectives
Mark Lupoli, National Insurance Crime Bureau

WHY:
The Los Angeles Police Department, in collaboration with the California Highway Patrol, National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), Taskforce for Regional Auto Theft Prevention, and the Department of Motor Vehicles Investigation Unit, will hold a press conference to announce the recovery of 142 unlawfully impounded vehicles. The operation follows numerous complaints of predatory towing by businesses operating as “Legend Auto” and/or “Legend Enterprise” in Van Nuys. Victims were misled through fraudulent text messages and false claims of insurance affiliation. Vehicles were towed without authorization and held for ransom under inflated and illegal fees. The investigation highlights the dangers of “bandit tow” operations. Officials will provide details on the enforcement action and consumer protection measures.

CONTACT:
For additional information, please contact Media Relations Division at (213)486-5910