Unmarked Police Cars: Why They're in Ramona And How You Can Stay Safe

Thanks to the county auctions held each year at the Ramona Fairgrounds, plenty of old police cars are seen driving around town. But some residents are concerned about the vehicles: how does one know when it's a sheriff's deputy and not someone in an unmarked police car acquired from the auction?

Crime Prevention Specialist Barbara Wallace, who works out of the San Diego County Sheriff's Department Ramona Substation, said there are things to look for when deciphering between an unmarked car and a sheriff's car or California Highway Patrol Vehicle.

"It's fairly easy to obtain lights," Wallace said, noting that dashboard lights or light bars for the top of cars can be purchased online for low-cost.

But Sheriff's Lt. James Bovet said you should be able to tell from the amount of lights on the vehicle if it's one of the departments.

"We've got a lot of lights on our cars," Bovet said. "They're pretty unmistakable."

However, if you happen to be pulled over by a car that isn't distinguishable, Wallace has some tips:

• If you're in a dark area and get directed to pull over, drive slowly to a lighted area where you feel safe to stop.
• If in doubt, call up the sheriff's department and ask if they have a deputy on patrol at that site (760-789-1200).
• A badge should be visible on the officer–look for one immediately.
• If you are uncomfortable, explain your worries.
• If you can't call dispatch (at the number above), call home and let someone know where you are.
• Don't be defiant—take the precautions above to ensure that a deputy has in fact pulled you over.
• You should be able to see a shotgun standing up in the middle of the driver and passenger seat of the sheriff's vehicle when looking in your rear-view mirror. 

Have you seen unmarked police cars around town? Are you worried someone may trick you to pull you over? Tell us in the comments below.