Border Crackdown on β€œWildcatters”

Authorities launch a campaign to crackdown on Illegal shuttle drivers at San Diego border crossings

They are called "Wildcatters".  They are people or businesses that sell rides to Los Angeles at the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa border crossings without the proper transportation permits.

Border officials are fed up with these illegal shuttles and have launched a campaign to crack down on them. The Transportation Border Council launched the Anti-Wildcatter campaign Wednesday.

Authorities say these illegal shuttle drivers use their personal vehicles and quote lower prices to customers.

Officials say it puts them at an unfair advantage since they cannot promise an insured or well-trained driver.

"If you're on the street with a vehicle that has an unlicensed driver or doesn't have proper permitting or hasn't been properly vetted by the authorities than you're at risk,” said Jason Wells with the San Ysidro Chamber of Commerce.

Police want to remind people that legal shuttles sell tickets out of ticket booths and use company vehicles bearing both company logos and license numbers.

Wildcatters face a fine of at least $350 and possible jail time.

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