In a dramatic turn of events, two sisters from Valley Center took matters into their own hands to track down and apprehend a man accused of selling a stolen car. Amy Escandon and Evelyn Escobar’s relentless pursuit led to the arrest of Sebastian Flores, who pleaded not guilty to conspiracy, auto theft, and fraud charges. The incident unfolded like a real-life thriller, with police conducting an undercover operation that culminated in a high-stakes confrontation.

Victory for Vigilance: Sisters Turn Tables on Alleged Car Thief

From Victim to Vigilante: The Beginnings of a Bold Pursuit

When Evelyn Escobar paid $23,000 for a vehicle she believed was legitimate, little did she know it was part of an elaborate fraud scheme. The car turned out to be a rental with falsified DMV documents. Devastated by the loss, Escobar and her sister Amy refused to let the matter rest. They embarked on an exhaustive online investigation, determined to uncover the identity of the scammer. For weeks, they scoured the internet, meticulously analyzing every detail until they finally identified the suspect.Amy Escandon recounted the moment they found him. “There was no doubt in my mind. I knew it was him. The voice, the mannerisms—it all matched.” The sisters’ determination was fueled by a mix of anger and resolve. They knew they had to act fast before the scammer struck again. Their efforts were about more than just reclaiming what was lost; it was about preventing future victims from falling prey to the same deceit.

Setting the Trap: A Calculated Plan to Expose the Scammer

With the suspect identified, the sisters devised a plan to catch him red-handed. Amy took the lead, posing as a potential buyer for another vehicle the scammer was advertising online. She crafted a believable persona, telling the seller that her husband didn’t speak English and was eager for a car. This made them appear vulnerable and easy targets. The meeting was set up at a local shopping center, but unbeknownst to the scammer, law enforcement was already on high alert. As Amy arrived at the designated location, she noticed the presence of undercover officers. “I saw two police officers walking by, asking him questions,” she recalled. Moments later, the suspect was handcuffed, and a helicopter circled overhead—a clear sign that the operation was underway. Amy realized then that justice was within reach.

A Cautionary Tale: The Risks and Rewards of Citizen Involvement

While the sisters’ actions ultimately led to the arrest of the alleged scammer, authorities caution against such vigilantism. Corona Police Sgt. Robert Montanez emphasized that victims should limit their involvement to online investigations and avoid face-to-face encounters. “We appreciate the sisters’ efforts, but we want to ensure public safety remains paramount,” he said. The case highlights the importance of exercising caution when making large purchases, especially online. Buyers are advised to meet sellers in public places during daylight hours and suggest locations like DMV offices or police stations. Verifying the vehicle’s documentation through official channels is crucial to prevent falling victim to similar scams. Despite the risks, the sisters’ bravery provided closure and potentially saved others from financial ruin.

Beyond the Arrest: The Broader Impact of the Sisters’ Actions

For Amy and Evelyn, the arrest brought a sense of vindication. While they may never recover the money lost, they take solace in knowing they stopped a predator from targeting more victims. “It wasn’t just about getting our money back,” Amy explained. “It was about stopping him from doing this to someone else.” Police believe there could be additional victims and urge anyone who has encountered similar schemes to come forward. The sisters’ story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact individuals can have when they refuse to remain silent in the face of injustice. It also underscores the need for vigilance and caution in an increasingly digital world where fraudsters operate with sophisticated methods.