Road spikes are causing trouble in Paso. Now there’s a $1,000 reward for info
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- Caltrops disabled over 40 vehicles on Paso Robles roads, including an ambulance.
- Crime Stoppers offered $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
- Police urge reports of suspicious activity after July surge in roadway sabotage.
After a spiky metal object known as a “caltrop” disabled an ambulance while responding to a call for service Monday evening, authorities are offering a reward to anyone who has information on who might be spreading the spikes on Paso Robles roads.
In recent weeks, officers have documented more than 40 incidents where vehicles sustained tire damage due to caltrops on public roadways, a Paso Robles Police Department news release said Tuesday.
On July 21, the agency began receiving “a new wave” of calls reporting similar damage, with more reports the following day.
The vandalism has now impacted emergency services, with spikes disabling an ambulance Monday night while responding to a call for service,the release said.
A second ambulance was required to complete the emergency response, the release said.
A tow truck was also disabled by a caltrop the same evening while assisting a motorist whose vehicle was also disabled by the spikes, the release said.
The latest incidents have been concentrated primarily along Creston Road and the Riverside and Black Oak area, the release said.
In light of the issues posed by the spikes, Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest in the case.
Affected motorists are encouraged to file a report by calling the Paso Robles Police Department at 805-237-6464, or by submitting an online report at prcity.com/671/File-a-Police-Report.
The agency also asked anyone who observes an individual placing objects in the roadway or sees suspicious activity or vehicles to report it immediately.
Individuals who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers by calling the 24-hour hotline at 805-549-STOP, or by texting “SLOTIPS” plus your message to CRIMES (274637).
