Crime & Safety

Fake Federal Agents Robbing Bay Area Victims: Police

Police are investigating multiple robberies linked to suspects presenting themselves as federal agents.

Detectives said multiple victims reported suspects posing as federal agents who demanded their wallets or purses.
Detectives said multiple victims reported suspects posing as federal agents who demanded their wallets or purses. (Shutterstock)

SAN RAFAEL, CA — Investigators in the North Bay are on the hunt for unidentified suspects posing as federal agents linked to a series of robberies in recent weeks, according to authorities.

The San Rafael Police Department said the imposters targeted people in cars and walking on the street, presenting themselves as federal agents and asking to see the contents of their wallets. After the victims complied, police said the suspects stole the items and fled the scene.

"The San Rafael Police Department wants to assure the public that no legitimate federal agents are involved in these incidents," the department wrote Tuesday. "If you are approached by someone claiming to be a law enforcement officer and you feel uncertain about their identity, we urge you to call your local police department immediately. We also want to emphasize that a law enforcement agent will never demand someone turn over their entire wallet, purse, or cash. A simple identification card is sufficient to establish identity."

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San Rafael detectives are pursuing leads in the case and ask community members to report any suspicious encounters or potential impersonation. Anyone with information relevant to the case can contact the police department at 415-485-3000.

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