Mobile Vehicle Repair Solicitors

Over the past four months, Caltech Security received two independent reports of two men aggressively soliciting vehicle body repairs in the parking structures.

In both incidents, the men approached individuals in the parking structures, offering to fix dents in their vehicles for a pre-established price. Once the work was complete, however, the suspects doubled the price of the work and insisted on being driven to the individuals' banks to withdraw cash to pay for the services.

During the incidents, the men were wearing either blue mechanic's-type uniforms or blue polo shirts with the "Tesla" logo on the front. They have been seen driving a white Toyota Tacoma.

The suspects are not considered dangerous. It is generally not considered a violation of state or local laws to provide an agreed-upon service. Nonetheless, these individuals are operating in a manner that is inconsistent with Caltech's policies and procedures, which require all vendors to campus be pre-approved and registered for work. If you or anyone you know is approached by a solicitor on Caltech's property, please contact Caltech Security at 626-395-4701.

Suspect Descriptions

One of the men has provided a California Driver's license with the name Johnny Reedas. The address listed on the driver's license does not exist.

The man identifying himself as Johnny Reedas is a darker-skinned adult about 5 feet, 11 inches tall and weighing 187 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. He is approximately 37 years old.

The second subject has been described as a male adult with blond hair. He has not been identified by name.

Safety and Security Guidance

Security is requesting the community's help in alerting the department in the event of the same or similar activities on campus. If you see these men, please contact Caltech Security at 626-395-4701.

The law requires all auto repair shops to be registered with the State of California Bureau of Automotive Repair. Call them at (800) 952-5210 or check this website to see if a shop is registered.

A repair shop must give you a written estimate before it makes any repairs. The repair shop cannot charge you more than the estimate without your permission.

To find a reliable repair shop, ask your friends or neighbors to recommend one.

If you have problems with a repair shop or want to learn about your rights, contact the State of California Bureau of Automotive Repair at (800) 952-5210.

The same office is also in charge of the California Smog Check program. If you have questions about your Smog Check, call (800) 952-5210.

Civil Code 2982, 1632, 1794.41