Skip to main content
Skip to main content.

Fraud Alert: Scam Text Messages Claiming DMV Penalties -

We have been made aware of fraudulent text messages being sent to individuals claiming to be from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the court system. These messages often state that the recipient owes penalties or fees related to traffic violations or DMV infractions and may include a link or phone number to resolve the matter. 

Take these steps to reduce the chances of falling victim to a text message scam:

  • Never respond to unsolicited or suspicious texts — If you receive a message asking for personal or financial information, do not reply.
  • Verify the source — If you are unsure, always contact the DMV through official channels.
  • Call the DMV if you have concerns — The DMV customer service team is available to help you at 800-777-0133.

Please see DMV warning about fraudulent texts: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/news-and-media/dmv-warns-of-fraudulent-te…

Jury Scam alert -

The Santa Barbara Superior Court has received complaints about individuals trying to scam members of the public by pretending to be court officers or officials. The Jury Services office of the Santa Barbara Superior Court does not call citizens to request payments for failing to appear for jury duty. California law does not permit citizens to pay a fine in lieu of jury duty. If you receive such a call simply hang up and, if the scammer persists, call your local law enforcement agency. Learn more about the recent scam warning.

Notice to Jurors:

Prospective jurors summoned for jury service can expect to receive their jury summons in postcard form. Please check your mail for a postcard with important instructions to fulfil your jury service. Visit the Jury Services page for more information.

Wells Fargo Bank NA v. Brandon Vargas

Case Number

23CV02717

Case Type

Civil Law & Motion

Hearing Date / Time

Wed, 11/08/2023 - 10:00

Nature of Proceedings

Motion for Deemed Admissions

Tentative Ruling

Jon O. Blanda, Angela A. Velen, Ashley Mulhorn for Plaintiff

Defendant is self-represented

Issue

Motion for deemed admissions.

Ruling

If Defendant Brandon Vargas provides verified responses to the Requests for Admissions (Set 1) to Plaintiff’s counsel no later than the time of the hearing on this motion, the motion will be denied.

If Defendant fails to provide verified responses to the Requests for Admissions (Set 1) to Plaintiff’s counsel prior to the time of the hearing on this motion, the motion will be granted, and the matters set forth in the Requests for Admissions will be deemed admitted.

Analysis

This is a collections case that was filed 6/26/23; damages sought of $20,573.24. Defendant filed an Answer on 8/8/23; it is a general denial; he is in pro per.

Plaintiff served Defendant Vargas with Requests for Admissions (Set 1) on August 2, 2023. While responses were due on September 6, 2023, no responses were received.

By letter dated September 7, 2023, Plaintiff provided Defendant with an extension to provide responses, without objection, within seven days, but Defendant again failed to respond. On September 28, 2023, Plaintiff filed the current motion for deemed admissions; no sanctions are sought. Defendant has not opposed the motion.

The Court’s Conclusions

The Court will enter the appropriate Orders.

Was this helpful?

This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.