Receiving an official letter from a police department’s Traffic Division warning of a criminal hit-and-run investigation can cause instant anxiety. For one California driver involved in an alleged parking lot collision in Torrance, taking immediate action by hiring top defense attorney Matthew Ruff made all the difference between facing misdemeanor criminal charges and having the entire investigation closed without criminal liability.
The Incident: An Alleged Hit-and-Run in Torrance
The case began when the Torrance Police Department Traffic Division opened an investigation regarding a reported hit-and-run collision that occurred in a parking lot on Carson Street.
The vehicle owner received a formal notice from Detective R. Schuffman, stating:
“A hit and run traffic accident report has been filed with this department. We have information that the following vehicle registered to you may have been involved. It is imperative that you contact me immediately…”
The letter further cited California Vehicle Code (CVC) Sections 22655(a), 22655.5(a), and (b), warning that a failure to respond could result in the towing and impoundment of the vehicle as evidence of a crime.
The Danger: Why You Should Never Speak to Police Alone
When investigating alleged hit-and-run incidents under California law, law enforcement officers routinely seek self-incriminating statements or driver identification from vehicle owners to build a criminal case. Unwittingly providing statements or trying to explain what happened directly to a detective can quickly convert a civil property dispute into criminal charges filed with the prosecutor’s office.
Recognizing the legal risks involved, the driver immediately sought professional legal representation from seasoned defense attorney Matthew Ruff.
Attorney Matthew Ruff’s Defense Strategy & Early Intervention
Attorney Matthew Ruff immediately intervened on behalf of the client, establishing formal legal communication directly with Detective Schuffman of the Torrance Police Department before any incriminating statements were made or criminal charges were referred.
By directly engaging with the investigator early in the process, Matthew Ruff accomplished several critical objectives:
1. Protected the Client’s Rights: Prevented law enforcement from interrogating the driver directly.
2. Facilitated Civil Resolution: Demonstrated that the matter involved minor parking lot property damage suitable for civil resolution rather than criminal prosecution.
3. Streamlined Information Exchange: Provided the necessary basic insurance and administrative information required to resolve the claim while ensuring no admissions of guilt were made.
The Result: Case Closed Without Criminal Charges
Thanks to Matthew Ruff’s prompt legal action and effective negotiation, Detective Schuffman confirmed via written correspondence that the matter would be handled civilly and closed entirely:
As a result:
No criminal charges were filed.
No arrest or court appearance was required.
No criminal record was created.
Key Takeaway: Don’t Wait Until You Are Formally Charged
This outcome highlights the immense value of pre-filing intervention. If you receive a letter or phone call from a police detective or collision investigator regarding a hit-and-run investigation:
Do NOT speak directly to the police.
Do NOT fill out or return statement sheets without legal guidance.
Contact an experienced hit-and-run defense attorney immediately.
With over 30 years of experience defending clients throughout Torrance, the South Bay, and Los Angeles County Hit and Run Defense Attorney Matthew Ruff knows how to navigate police investigations and resolve cases before criminal charges are ever filed.
